Bolton Council Proposes Boroughwide HMO Licensing Scheme

Bolton Council has initiated a public consultation on plans to introduce an Additional Licensing Scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) throughout the borough. This follows the introduction of an Article 4 Direction in June last year, which tightened planning controls by requiring full planning permission for any HMO conversion, regardless of size.

The council’s proposed licensing scheme aims to enhance safety, living conditions, and management practices within the private rented sector. A licence under this scheme would cost £1,211 per property and last for five years.

Controlling the Growth of HMOs in Bolton

Councillor Sean Fielding, executive member for community housing, explained the council’s approach: “This is another example of where the council is seeking to use its limited powers to try and control the growth in the number of HMOs in Bolton.” He highlighted that the Article 4 Direction was the first step, requiring smaller HMOs to apply for planning permission where previously they did not.

He added, “If agreed following the consultation, I would hope that requiring HMOs to be licensed will drive unscrupulous HMO landlords out of town and improve the quality of those which do remain.” However, he also acknowledged that the increase in HMOs reflects wider housing market challenges that will only be addressed by building more genuinely affordable homes for Bolton residents.

Extending Licensing to Smaller HMOs

Currently, national regulations mandate licensing only for larger HMOs with five or more occupants. Bolton’s proposal would extend local licensing requirements to smaller shared properties housing three or four people, as well as some converted buildings where safety measures may be inadequate.

The council notes that shared rented homes in Bolton accommodate a diverse group of residents, including younger adults and those on lower incomes who may have limited housing options. While many landlords operate responsibly, evidence suggests a rise in smaller HMOs that do not meet acceptable standards.

Common issues linked to poorly managed HMOs include fire risks, overcrowding, substandard living conditions, refuse management problems, and anti-social behaviour.

Improving Oversight and Enforcement

If implemented, the licensing scheme would apply across the entire borough and introduce mandatory conditions related to property management, condition, and safety. This would provide the council with greater oversight of shared housing, enabling inspections and enforcement action where standards are not met.

The council is inviting feedback from residents, tenants, landlords, managing agents, businesses, and organisations on whether the scheme should proceed. The consultation is open until Sunday 19 April, with the survey accessible via the council’s website.

What This Means for Landlords

Landlords of smaller HMOs in Bolton should be aware that the proposed scheme could require them to obtain a licence and comply with stricter management and safety standards. This may involve additional costs and inspections but aims to improve the overall quality and reputation of the HMO sector locally.

Letting agents and property managers should prepare to advise clients accordingly and monitor the consultation outcomes to ensure compliance with any new licensing requirements.

Next Steps

Following the consultation period, Bolton Council will review the feedback before deciding whether to implement the Additional Licensing Scheme. Landlords and agents are encouraged to participate in the consultation to have their views considered.

Suggested internal link anchors

• Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
• Additional Licensing Scheme
• Article 4 Direction
• private rented sector
• HMO safety standards
• licensing fees
• HMO management requirements
• landlord responsibilities
• housing market challenges
• tenant safety
• property inspections
• licensing consultation

TLA update

TLA is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in Q1 2026, featuring verified and approved service providers selected to support landlords, tenants, and property management businesses. We are inviting legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, tenant screening, and other service providers to register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/