Oldham Rental Licensing: Selective, HMO and What to Do

Landlords operating in Oldham need to be aware of the local property licensing requirements. Oldham Council currently operates a Selective Licensing scheme in specific areas, meaning that certain privately rented properties must be licensed to ensure they meet required standards and are managed effectively. This guide provides essential information for landlords in Oldham regarding their obligations under this scheme, helping to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties.

What is Selective Licensing?

Selective Licensing is a scheme introduced by local authorities to improve the management of privately rented properties in areas experiencing issues such as anti-social behaviour, low housing demand, or poor property conditions. Under a Selective Licensing scheme, all privately rented properties within a designated area, regardless of the number of occupants, must obtain a licence from the council. The aim is to ensure that landlords are fit and proper persons and that properties are managed to a satisfactory standard, contributing to safer and better-maintained communities. This type of licensing is distinct from Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing, as it applies to all private rented homes, not just those occupied by multiple households.

Which properties need a licence in Oldham?

In Oldham, properties that fall within the designated Selective Licensing areas require a licence. The specific areas covered by the Selective Licensing scheme are determined by Oldham Council based on local housing conditions and community needs. Typically, these schemes target areas where there are concerns about property management, housing quality, or levels of anti-social behaviour. If your property is located within one of these designated zones and is privately rented, it is highly likely that you will need to apply for a Selective Licence. It is crucial for landlords to identify if their properties are within these boundaries to ensure full compliance with local regulations. Failure to do so can lead to significant legal and financial repercussions.

How to check if your property needs a licence

Determining whether your property in Oldham requires a Selective Licence is a critical first step. The most reliable way to confirm this is by checking the official information provided by Oldham Council. You can also utilise resources like tuxa.co.uk, where you can search by address to see if your property falls within a designated licensing area. This service can help landlords quickly ascertain their obligations without having to navigate complex council websites. Always cross-reference information with the council's official publications to ensure accuracy and up-to-date details regarding scheme boundaries and requirements.

Penalties for non-compliance

Non-compliance with property licensing regulations in Oldham can lead to severe penalties for landlords. Operating a privately rented property that requires a licence without one is a serious offence. Landlords found to be in breach of these regulations can face a civil penalty of up to £30,000. In more serious cases, or if the matter is taken to a magistrates' court, an unlimited fine may be imposed. Additionally, councils can issue Rent Repayment Orders, forcing landlords to repay up to 12 months' rent to tenants. It is therefore imperative for landlords to understand and adhere to all licensing requirements to avoid these significant financial and legal consequences.

Apply for a licence

If you have determined that your property in Oldham requires a Selective Licence, the next step is to apply for one. The application process is managed directly by Oldham Council. You will typically need to complete an application form, provide details about yourself and the property, and pay the relevant fee. It is advisable to contact Oldham Council's housing or private rented sector team directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information on how to apply, including specific forms, required documentation, and current fees. Early application is recommended to ensure your property is licensed before any deadlines or scheme commencement dates.

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This page was researched and written by the Tuxa editorial team. Our data is sourced directly from local authority websites, MHCLG scheme designation orders, and the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA). We update our content when councils announce new schemes or enforcement actions. If you spot an error or out-of-date information, please contact us.

Last reviewed: March 2026

Related Guides

• What Is Selective Licensing? A Complete Guide for UK Landlords
• Selective vs Additional Licensing: What Is the Difference?
• Rental Licensing Fines: What UK Landlords Need to Know
• How to Stay Compliant with HMO Licensing
• Active licensing consultations and upcoming scheme changes