FAQ

What is Article 4?

Article 4 is a planning direction that is used to limit the works that can be undertaken on a property without needing planning permission from the local authority (council). 

A number of local authorities have introduced Article 4 direction to limit the conversion of C3 (single household dwelling) properties to C4 (House of Multiple Occupation) without first receiving planning approval from the local authority. In simple terms this prevents the conversion of a family home to a house of multiple occupancy of three to six "unrelated" tenants.

What is a lawful development certificate?

A lawful development certificate, also known as a certificate of lawful use (CLU) is a legal document which proves the lawfulness of past, present or future building use. If granted, it means that enforcement action cannot be carried out to the development referred to in the certificate.

Can I get planning to convert my property from C3 usage to C4?

If your property was in use as a HMO when Article 4 came into force in your planning area (see dates below) it is possible to apply for a lawful development certificate for retrospective usage as the property has 'established use'. The certificate ensures your property meets the required planning class for its usage.

It is very difficult to obtain permission to convert a family home (C3) to HMO (C4) in an area of Article 4 direction without precedent for usage at the date Article 4 direction came into effect.

What dates did Article 4 come into direction in my area?

Leeds: 10th February 2012
Hull: 9th October 2013
Sheffield: 10th December 2011
Newcastle: 9th December 2012
Liverpool: 17th June 2021
Manchester: 1st May 2019
York: 20th April 2012
Leicester: 19th February 2021
Bristol: 21st October 2012

What information do I need to provide in order for you to prepare my application?

For the best chance of receiving a Lawful Development Certificate we will need

* A copy of your historical tenancy agreements that start at the date Article 4 came into use in your area. They should start for the period covering the date Article 4 came into effect and ideally run up to your most recent tenancy agreement e.g. from 2012 - 2022.

* A floor plan of your property. This can often be obtained from your estate agent listings if you have put your property up for sale or rent in the past.

How long will it take to get a decision on my planning application?

Typically it will take 3 to 4 months for the local authority to reach a decision on an application.

Is the fee still payable if the application is refused?

Yes the fee is not dependant on the planners decision.