Selective Licensing in Middlesbrough: Schemes, Fees and Dates

If you own a private rented property in Middlesbrough, the most important fact for you as a landlord is that selective licensing applies exclusively to specific areas: North Ormesby and Newport. The vast majority of Middlesbrough, encompassing areas like Marton, Nunthorpe, and Acklam, remains outside the scope of selective licensing. This means your licensing obligations are entirely determined by your property's precise location within the town.

Selective Licensing in Middlesbrough: An Overview

Middlesbrough Council has implemented selective licensing to elevate housing conditions and management standards in areas characterised by a high concentration of private rented properties and historically lower property values. Currently, three active schemes are in operation, all concentrated within the inner-town areas of North Ormesby and Newport.

Understanding the Schemes and Their Timelines

Landlords must be aware of the specific boundaries and durations of each scheme, as some can overlap. Notably, the North Ormesby scheme is scheduled to conclude on 13 June 2026. Landlords with properties in this area should proactively engage with Middlesbrough Council to ascertain if the scheme has been renewed or replaced, thereby preventing operation without a valid licence. It is worth noting that Middlesbrough Council has faced legal challenges regarding its selective licensing policy, highlighting the importance of staying informed about any updates.

Here are the details of the current selective licensing schemes in Middlesbrough:

Licence Fees: Specifics for Middlesbrough Landlords

The fee for a selective licence in Middlesbrough varies by scheme and application type. For instance, the Newport scheme introduced in 2024 charges £998, while the Newport 2 scheme (from 2023) has been cited at £760. The North Ormesby scheme has been reported at £845. These figures are significantly higher than the general approximation of £450-£600 sometimes quoted. The exact fee can also depend on whether you are a new applicant or renewing a licence, and if you are a member of an accredited landlord scheme. Always consult the official Middlesbrough Council website or contact their housing standards team for the most current and accurate fee structure relevant to your specific application.

What this means for your property: A practical example

Consider a landlord, David, who owns two properties in Middlesbrough. One is a terraced house on Parliament Road in North Ormesby, and the other is a semi-detached property in Marton Manor. For David's Parliament Road property, located within the North Ormesby selective licensing area, he is legally required to hold a selective licence. This entails adhering to all associated conditions, including maintaining property standards, ensuring tenant safety, and managing waste appropriately. He must also be acutely aware that the North Ormesby scheme is set to expire on 13 June 2026 and should actively monitor council announcements for renewal or replacement information to ensure continuous compliance. His property in Marton Manor, however, falls outside any designated selective licensing area, meaning he has no requirement for a selective licence for that specific address. This example underscores that location is the sole determinant of licensing obligations in Middlesbrough, and even within the town, requirements differ significantly.

How to apply: Your next steps

Applying for a selective licence in Middlesbrough involves a clear process:

1. Confirm your property's status: Utilise the Middlesbrough Council's online mapping tool or directly contact their housing standards team on 01642 728100 to definitively confirm if your property is within a designated selective licensing area.

2. Prepare essential documentation: This typically includes proof of ownership, valid gas safety certificates, up-to-date electrical installation condition reports (EICR), energy performance certificates (EPC), and comprehensive details of any property management arrangements.

3. Complete the official application form: The application form is accessible via the Middlesbrough Council website. Ensure all sections are completed accurately and thoroughly to avoid delays.

4. Arrange fee payment: The licence fee, which can be substantial (e.g., £998 for the Newport scheme), is usually payable in instalments or as a single payment. Specific payment details will be provided during the application process.

5. Maintain compliance: Once your licence is granted, you are obligated to adhere to all specified licence conditions throughout its duration. These conditions cover aspects such as property maintenance, waste management, and responsible tenant engagement.

Check your specific property

To definitively confirm whether your property requires a selective licence in Middlesbrough, use our dedicated search tool. Enter your property's postcode to receive an immediate and accurate assessment of your licensing obligations.

Check your property now