Wirral Property Licensing Schemes
Got questions about licensing schemes in the Wirral? We’re here to help. This free guide will provide you with the key details regarding what licensing requirements are necessary in the Wirral 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 the Wirral?
Mandatory licensing in the Wirral:
Mandatory licensing is required in the Wirral across all HMO properties if they are 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 a selective property licence in the Wirral?
Selective licensing in the Wirral requires that all privately rented properties in certain regions apply for a HMO licence. Here is a breakdown of where selective licensing is enforced in the Wirral:
- The first scheme covers parts of Birkenhead South, Egerton North, Egremont South, Ergemont promenade south, Seacombe Library and Tranmere Lairds, running from 01/10/2020 until 30/09/2025.
- A second scheme started on 01/04/2024, ending on 31/03/2029, covering parts of Birkenhead and Wallasey.
Do I need an additional licence in the Wirral?
There are currently no additional licensing schemes running in the Wirral.
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How do I apply for a licence in the Wirral?
Wirral Council has an online HMO licensing application process accessible here. For Kamma users, we offer a licensing application service for the Wirral. Get in touch with us here to find out more.
How much does a licence cost?
- The mandatory licence fee is £650 for up to five units of accommodation, with an additional £30 per extra unit.
- The selective licence fees are £645 for the 2024 scheme and £595 for the 2020 scheme.
These fees are subject to change and are accurate as of 1st July 2024
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What happens if I don't get a licence in the Wirral?
Ignoring the law could result in prosecution by Wirral 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.
Frequently asked questions:
Is the Wirral planning to introduce any new licensing schemes?
As of now, Wirral council are not consulting on any new licensing schemes.
Why has Wirral Council introduced selective licensing?
Wirral introduced selective licensing to address areas of low housing demand and improve property conditions in the private rented sector, where nearly one in three properties fails to meet minimum standards. Poor housing conditions negatively impact residents’ health and welfare, affecting local communities. Under the Housing Act 2004, Wirral has established two Selective Licensing Schemes covering 10 areas to enforce better property management and living conditions.
What are the minimum room sizes for a licensable HMO in the Wirral?
The government has set minimum room sizes for sleeping accommodations in licensable Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Wirral. These standards are:
- 4.64m² for a single person under 10 years old.
- 6.51m² for a single person aged 10 and over.
- 10.22m² for two persons.
These room sizes apply to HMOs with sufficient communal living areas for the number of occupants. Additionally, landlords and agents must have adequate arrangements for the storage and disposal of household waste.
What are the standards to qualify for a HMO licence in the Wirral?
To obtain an HMO licence in Wirral, the property must comply with mandatory conditions set by the Housing Act 2004, including specifying the maximum number of occupants. The council may also impose additional property-specific conditions. The property must meet standards outlined in The Licensing and Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation and Other Houses (Miscellaneous Provisions) (England) Regulations 2006, schedule 3. These standards cover adequate heating, washing facilities, and kitchens, including provisions for exclusive use of these amenities in designated rooms. Compliance with these requirements is essential for licensing approval.
About The Wirral
Wirral, a metropolitan borough in Merseyside, northwestern England, occupies most of the Wirral peninsula, bordered by the River Mersey, Irish Sea, and River Dee. Initially agricultural, it developed in the early 19th century with Liverpool’s growth, becoming a residential area and commercial port. Key developments include shipyards and docks in Birkenhead.
Connected to Liverpool by ferries, road tunnels, and a rail tunnel, Wirral’s urban and industrial activities are mainly in the northeast, while the rest features suburban areas, villages, and agricultural land. The coast from New Brighton to West Kirby is a recreational area, including the Royal Liverpool Golf Club. Industries include flour milling, margarine and pharmaceutical manufacturing, and marine engineering. Wirral spans 61 square miles (158 square km) with a population of 319,783 in 2011.
