Salford Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in Salford? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in Salford 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 Salford?
Mandatory licensing in Salford
Mandatory licensing is required in Salford if your rented property is occupied by five or more people who form 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 Salford?
Additional licensing requires all HMO properties in a given area with three or more occupants from two or more households to obtain a property licence. Salford council currently operates one additional licensing scheme, encompassing the entire district. The scheme runs from 19/07/2021 until 18/07/2026
Do I need a selective licence in Salford?
Selective licensing requires all HMO properties in a given area to obtain a licence, regardless of the number of occupants or households formed. Salford council currently operates two selective licensing schemes, and is consulting on the introduction of a third. The details of the schemes are as follows
- Selective licensing scheme 1: Running from 20/11/2019 until 19/11/2024, covering the Weaste & Seedley ward
- Selective licensing scheme 2: Running from 01/09/2022 until 31/08/2027, covering Barton & Winton and Eccles wards
- Selective licensing consultation: Salford council launched a consultation in July 2024 on the introduction of another selective licensing scheme in parts of Broughton and Kersal. The consultation runs until September 2024 where a decision will be made if the scheme is to go ahead.
How do I apply for a licence?
Salford Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licence application service for Salford. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a license cost?
Additional licence fee: £1,085
Mandatory licence fee: £970
Selective licence fee: £609
These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of 18th April 2024.
Get instant access to compliance reports across all properties
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- Clear actionable advice for every property in your portfolio
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What happens if I don't get a licence in Salford?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Salford Council, fines, court costs, and more. Ensure you comply with all regulations to avoid these risks. Fines for non-compliant agents can be up to £30,000 per non-compliant property, as well as rent repayment orders of up to 12 months.
If you’re concerned about unlicensed properties in your portfolio, book a free consultation today with one of our consultants to get a property licensing check here. By keeping your properties in line with your region’s licensing requirements, you can maintain peace of mind that you won’t get burnt by non-compliance.
Licensing enforcement efforts in Salford
Salford City Council recently fined a landlord £20,000 for letting out unsafe flats without power or hot water. The property had serious safety issues, including unmaintained fire doors, a faulty fire alarm, and blocked escape routes. Despite being banned from renting until necessary repairs were made, the landlord repeatedly re-let the flats without completing the required work. The council’s inspections revealed ongoing non-compliance, leading to the rehoming of tenants. In addition to the fine, the landlord was ordered to pay costs and a victim surcharge. The council emphasised the importance of fire safety and its commitment to rigorous inspections to ensure tenant safety and proper property standards.
If you’re unsure as to the properties you manage may need a HMO licence in Salford, feel free to use our Salford property licence checker to receive a free licensing report.
Frequently asked questions:
Is Salford council planning on introducing any new licensing schemes?
Salford council launched a consultation in July 2024 to expand their selective licensing measures to parts of Broughton and Kersal. The consultation ends in September 2024 where a decision will be made as to whether the scheme will go ahead.
What are Salford Council’s selective licensing conditions?
Salford City Council has established comprehensive conditions for obtaining a selective licence for rental properties. These conditions ensure the safety, suitability, and proper management of licensed properties. Key requirements include maintaining up-to-date gas and electrical safety certificates, installing and maintaining smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and providing tenants with written terms of occupancy. Landlords must also obtain references for all tenants and ensure furniture and electrical appliances are safe and in good condition.
Additionally, landlords must provide emergency contact information, conduct regular property inspections, and ensure proper waste management. They must take steps to prevent and address antisocial behaviour, keep the property and surrounding areas clean and tidy, and provide tenants with information on local waste and recycling services. Compliance with these conditions helps ensure a safe and well-managed rental environment in Salford.
Why has Salford Council introduced additional licensing?
Salford Council introduced additional licensing measures to address the poor conditions in the private rented sector, particularly within Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). The council identified issues such as inadequate fire safety measures, damp and cold homes, and poor property maintenance. Additionally, there were problems with waste disposal and domestic waste management. These conditions have significant negative impacts on tenants and the wider community. The council believes that regulating these properties through additional licensing will improve management and safety standards, ultimately enhancing the quality of housing and living conditions for residents across Salford
About Salford
Salford, located in Greater Manchester, England, is a historic city known for its significant role in the textile industry since the 14th century. The city’s industrial growth was boosted by the Bridgewater Canal (1761) and the Manchester Ship Canal (1894), making it a hub for cotton textiles, coal mining, and heavy engineering. Post-World War II, Salford diversified into chemicals, plastics, and electronics manufacturing. Key landmarks include Ordsall Hall and the University of Salford. The metropolitan borough spans 37 square miles with a population of 233,933 as of 2011.
