Greater Manchester landlords will soon have access to grants of up to £30,000 aimed at improving the energy performance of their rental properties. This initiative forms part of Mayor Andy Burnham’s Good Landlord Charter, which seeks to raise housing standards while supporting responsible landlords across the region.

Backing responsible landlords to improve EPC ratings

The Good Landlord Charter, launched in April last year, is a key element of Andy Burnham’s vision to ensure all residents in Greater Manchester have access to safe, secure, affordable, and healthy homes by 2038. Under this scheme, landlords who sign up as supporters can apply for the Warm Homes: Local Grant, which offers up to £30,000 to enhance energy efficiency and install low-carbon heating systems in their properties.

Andy Burnham emphasises the importance of healthy homes in improving residents’ quality of life: “When people have a healthy home, they are more likely to thrive in their everyday life.” He highlights the region’s innovative approach, stating, “With our joined-up approach, we are proactively supporting landlords to make improvements and incentivising them to take responsibility for their properties, and the warmth and safety of their tenants.”

The Mayor also underlines the strategic use of devolution powers to pioneer a new model for housing growth, linking public funding with ethical landlord behaviour. “Greater Manchester’s message is clear: We will work with and support responsible landlords who want to do the right thing, and we will take firm action against those who don’t,” he adds.

Eligibility and support for private rented sector landlords

Access to the Warm Homes: Local Grant is strictly limited to landlords registered with the Good Landlord Charter. Tom Fisher, head of the Charter’s Implementation Unit, explains the rationale behind this connection: “We’re pleased that only landlords who are Supporters of the Charter are eligible for the Warm Homes: Local Grant. This connection between the Charter and the grants will support PRS landlords to provide more energy-efficient homes for tenants.”

Fisher also points to the evolving regulatory landscape, noting the importance for landlords to stay informed: “With the Renters Rights Act and new EPC rules coming in, it’s a crucial time for landlords to stay on top of changes to provide good homes. Landlords registered with the Charter have access to expert advice, support, and guidance to raise renting standards and be recognised as one of Greater Manchester’s Good Landlords.”

Enforcement and improving standards

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority reports a recent 43% increase in financial penalties against poor landlords, with fines totalling £1.47 million. This enforcement activity underscores the region’s commitment to raising housing standards and protecting tenants.

What this means for landlords

For landlords in Greater Manchester, the Good Landlord Charter represents both an opportunity and a responsibility. By joining the Charter, landlords can access substantial financial support to upgrade their properties’ energy efficiency, helping them meet forthcoming EPC regulations and improve tenant wellbeing. At the same time, the Charter offers expert guidance to navigate regulatory changes and enhance property management practices.

However, the initiative also signals increased scrutiny and enforcement for landlords who fail to meet required standards. The rise in penalties illustrates a tougher stance on non-compliance, making participation in the Charter a strategic move for landlords seeking to maintain good standing and avoid costly fines.

Source: Based on reporting from Property118

TLA Training Academy

The Landlord Association has launched its new Training Academy for UK landlords, providing structured guidance, compliance education, and practical knowledge to support landlords at every stage. Members can now complete the programme and become TLA Certified Landlords at no additional cost as part of their membership.

Landlords can explore the Academy here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/tla-academy/

Those looking to join and access the full training and certification can register here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/landlord-association-membership-uk/

TLA update

The Landlord Association is currently onboarding new service providers into its Trusted Partner Hub, a new initiative designed to support landlords, tenants, letting agents, and property managers with vetted, high-quality services. As one of the fastest growing landlord associations in the UK, TLA offers partners direct access to an engaged and active member base at the point of need. Service providers across legal, maintenance, insurance, finance, mortgages, tenant screening, and property services can register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/