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Property Licensing Guide for Oldham
Oldham currently operates selective licensing in 11 wards; mandatory HMO licensing applies everywhere. Last checked: 3 July 2026.
This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in this area and how to apply for a licence.
New to this? Read our overview: What is selective licensing?
Oldham Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Oldham? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Oldham and how to apply for a licence.
Is manual compliance causing a headache for your agency? At Kamma, we specialise in automating licensing compliance for agents across the UK. If you need any assistance in getting your property portfolio compliant, find out how we can help letting agents here.
What are the licensing requirements for Oldham?
Mandatory licensing in Oldham
Mandatory HMO licensing applies across Oldham (and all of England) to larger HMOs — properties occupied by five or more people forming more than one household, including:
- Shared houses and flats occupied by students and young professionals.
- Properties converted into bedsits with some shared facilities.
- Properties converted into a mix of self-contained and non-self-contained accommodation.
Do I need an additional property licence in Oldham?
Additional licensing requires smaller HMOs in a designated area to be licensed — a privately rented property with three or more people forming more than one household.
Oldham does not currently operate an additional HMO licensing scheme; larger HMOs are covered by the national mandatory HMO scheme.
Do I need a selective licence in Oldham?
Selective licensing requires almost all privately rented properties in a designated area to be licensed, regardless of the number of occupants.
Oldham operates selective licensing — the current designation is set out below.
Selective licensing: 4 July 2022 to 3 July 2027 — covering Alexandra, Chadderton South, Coldhurst, Failsworth East, Hollinwood, Medlock Vale, Saddleworth West & Lees, St James’, St Mary’s, Waterhead and Werneth.
Mandatory HMO licensing: in force since 2006 for HMOs of five or more people forming more than one household.
How do I apply for a licence?
You can apply for a licence via Oldham Council’s website here. Or let Kamma’s expert team process the application for you.
How much does a license cost?
Oldham Council sets the following licence fees:
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Mandatory HMO | £834 for a 5-bedroom HMO (+£35.60 per additional bedroom), plus a £380 compliance/enforcement fee on grant. |
| Selective | £582 total — £340.34 on application + £241.66 on grant. |
Fees are set by the council and can change — check Oldham Council’s licensing pages for the latest figures.
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Oldham Property Licensing FAQs
What licensing schemes does Oldham operate?
Oldham operates selective licensing (4 July 2022 to 3 July 2027), alongside the national mandatory HMO scheme. See the scheme details above.
Do all properties in Oldham need a licence?
It depends on the scheme and your property. Where selective licensing applies, most privately rented homes need a licence; HMOs fall under mandatory or additional licensing depending on size and occupancy.What if my property doesn't have a licence?
Operating an unlicensed property that requires a licence can bring civil penalties of up to £40,000 per property, rent repayment orders of up to 24 months, and being unable to serve a Section 21 notice. Letting agents can be held jointly liable.Can letting agents apply on behalf of landlords?
Yes. Letting agents can apply for property licences on behalf of landlords in Oldham, and many manage the full process.
How do I apply for a Oldham property licence?
You can apply through Oldham Council’s website (licensing pages), or use a managed service such as Kamma.
How long does an application take?
Processing times vary with the council’s workload and the quality of the application. A complete, correctly prepared application is processed fastest.
Why did Oldham introduce selective licensing?
Selective licensing is used to improve housing conditions and tackle anti-social behaviour in the private rented sector.
Why did Oldham introduce additional licensing?
Additional HMO licensing addresses overcrowding, disrepair and management standards in smaller HMOs not covered by the national mandatory scheme.
What are the conditions to obtain an HMO licence in Oldham?
The council’s HMO licence conditions set standards for fire safety, amenities, room sizes and management (licence conditions).
About Oldham
Oldham is a metropolitan borough in Greater Manchester, England, with a rich industrial heritage and a diverse community. Historically, the town was a centre of textile manufacturing during the Industrial Revolution, becoming one of the world’s largest producers of cotton. Today, Oldham is characterised by its mix of urban and rural areas, featuring a variety of residential neighbourhoods, green spaces, and industrial zones. The borough has undergone significant regeneration in recent years, focusing on improving housing, education, and economic opportunities. With a population of around 237,000, Oldham is known for its cultural diversity, historic landmarks, and strong community spirit.
Licensing Enforcement in Oldham
Oldham Council enforces property licensing across its schemes. Letting a property without the required licence risks prosecution, civil penalties of up to £40,000 per property, and rent repayment orders of up to 24 months — with letting agents jointly liable alongside landlords.
