Rental Licensing in Wigan: Which Areas Need a Licence?

Contrary to some perceptions, Wigan Council does not currently operate a selective licensing scheme across any part of its borough [1] [2]. This means that landlords in Wigan are not presently required to obtain a licence for their privately rented properties based solely on location. However, the council has previously considered such schemes, indicating a potential for future implementation [3]. Landlords must remain vigilant for any policy changes that could introduce selective licensing in specific areas of Wigan.

While selective licensing is not in effect, landlords in Wigan are still subject to Mandatory Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing. This applies to properties occupied by five or more individuals, forming two or more separate households, who share amenities such as a kitchen or bathroom [5]. These larger HMOs require a licence regardless of their location within the borough. Smaller HMOs, with fewer than five occupants, do not currently require a licence in Wigan, unless an Additional Licensing scheme were to be introduced in the future [6]. The council actively enforces HMO regulations to ensure safe and well-managed shared accommodation.

Furthermore, Wigan Council has implemented an Article 4 Direction, which came into effect on 10 December 2025, covering the entire borough [7]. This direction removes permitted development rights for converting a family dwelling (Use Class C3) into a small House in Multiple Occupation (Use Class C4). Consequently, landlords wishing to convert a property into a small HMO now require full planning permission, adding an additional layer of regulatory compliance to property development in Wigan.

What Landlords Need to Know - practical specifics unique to this location

Given the absence of selective licensing, landlords in Wigan should primarily focus on compliance with Mandatory HMO licensing requirements if their property meets the criteria of five or more occupants from two or more households. The application process for an HMO licence involves a detailed assessment of the property\'s suitability, including fire safety measures, amenity standards, and the fitness of the proposed licence holder. The current fee for a new Mandatory HMO licence application is £792 [8]. Renewal applications are priced at £511 [8]. Properties with 11 to 20 occupiers incur an additional fee of £32, with further increments for larger properties.

The borough-wide Article 4 Direction significantly impacts landlords considering converting properties into smaller HMOs. This means that a change of use from a single dwelling to a small HMO, which previously might not have required planning permission, now does. Landlords must factor in the time and cost associated with obtaining planning permission, alongside any other necessary building regulations approvals, before undertaking such conversions. Failure to secure planning permission could lead to enforcement action by Wigan Council.

Landlord Checklist

1. Assess HMO Status: Determine if your property qualifies as a Mandatory HMO (five or more occupants, two or more households) and apply for a licence if required. The current fee for a new application is £792 [8].

2. Check Planning Requirements: Before converting any property into a small HMO (3-6 unrelated occupants), apply for planning permission due to the borough-wide Article 4 Direction effective from 10 December 2025 [7].

3. Ensure Property Standards: Comply with all housing standards, particularly fire safety, adequate amenities, and property maintenance, as enforced by Wigan Council\'s Private Sector Housing team.

4. Stay Informed on Licensing Updates: Regularly check the Wigan Council website for any announcements regarding potential future selective licensing schemes or changes to existing policies.

5. Maintain Tenant Safety: Ensure all gas and electrical safety checks are up-to-date, and provide tenants with relevant safety certificates.

6. Understand Legal Obligations: Familiarise yourself with the Housing Act 2004 and other relevant legislation governing private rented accommodation in the UK.

While Wigan Council does not currently operate a selective licensing scheme, landlords must be aware of the borough-wide Article 4 Direction, effective from 10 December 2025, which necessitates planning permission for converting a dwelling into a small House in Multiple Occupation (C4 use class) [7].

Understanding the specific regulatory landscape in Wigan is essential for landlords to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties. While selective licensing is not a current concern, Mandatory HMO licensing and the Article 4 Direction represent significant obligations. Staying informed through the official Wigan Council channels is crucial for all property owners and managers in the area.

1] [Do I need to apply for a landlord licence? - Wigan Council

2] [Selective Licensing Schemes - Decision - Wigan Council Democracy

3] [Selective Licensing Schemes - Issue details - Wigan Council ModernGov

4] [Request 1. Do you run a \'Selective Licensing\' scheme? If... - Wigan Council PDF

5] [Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) - Wigan Council

6] [HMO further information - Wigan Council

7] [Wigan Council\'s Article 4 Direction: What It Means for Landlords - LinkedIn

8] [Fees and Charges - Wigan Council