Manchester HMO licensing guide

HMO licence in Manchester — do I need one?

Manchester has 1 licensing scheme on our register, on top of the national mandatory HMO rules. This page summarises the active and upcoming schemes, links to the council source, and explains what you need to do as a landlord.

Active and upcoming schemes

Sourced from Manchester announcements and tracked by our weekly scanner. Always verify directly with the council before applying.

SelectiveEffective: 24 May 2025 to 23 May 2030

Manchester Selective Licensing Scheme (parts of 6 wards)

Selective licensing covering parts of Cheetham, Crumpsall, Harpurhey, Longsight, Miles Platting & Newton Heath, and Moss Side wards. Affects approximately 1,800 privately rented homes. Application fee from £798. Runs for five years.

Read the original announcement →

National mandatory HMO rules (apply everywhere in England)

Regardless of any Manchester-specific scheme, you also need to comply with the national mandatory HMO licensing rules under the Housing Act 2004:

  • 5 or more occupants from 2 or more separate households sharing a kitchen, bathroom or toilet → mandatory HMO licence required.
  • A household = single person, couple, or family unit. Unrelated sharers each count as a separate household.
  • Unlicensed HMOs face civil penalties up to £30,000, Rent Repayment Orders (up to 12 months' rent).
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Disclaimer: This page is an indicative guide based on publicly announced Manchester schemes and the Housing Act 2004 standard test. It is not legal advice. Council schemes change frequently — always confirm the current position with Manchester City Council before letting or applying for a licence.