Burnley Council launches consultation on selective licensing proposals

Burnley Council launches consultation on selective licensing proposals

Burnley Council has opened a consultation inviting residents, landlords and businesses to comment on proposed selective licensing schemes aimed at improving private rented housing conditions and community stability.

Burnley Council is seeking views on plans for selective licensing in three areas of the borough. The consultation period runs until 18 October 2026. The council says the proposals aim to protect tenants’ rights, improve living conditions, tackle antisocial behaviour and reduce issues such as fly-tipping and untidy back yards. The schemes would also support bringing empty homes back into use and help create more sustainable communities.

Councillor Howard Baker, executive member for housing and development control, emphasised that no final decision has been made yet. He described the consultation as an opportunity for residents, landlords, businesses and partners to shape the council’s next steps. Baker highlighted the existing selective licensing team’s work to raise standards in privately rented housing and support better neighbourhoods.

Details of the selective licensing consultation

The council’s statement on the consultation outlines the objectives of the proposed selective licensing schemes. These include protecting tenants’ rights by ensuring landlords meet required standards and managing antisocial behaviour linked to poorly managed properties. The council also aims to address environmental issues such as fly-tipping and untidy gardens that can affect community wellbeing.

Selective licensing schemes require landlords in designated areas to obtain a licence from the local authority. This gives the council powers to enforce property standards and take action against landlords who fail to comply. The council’s consultation invites feedback on the specific areas proposed for licensing and the support landlords and tenants may need.

Councillor Baker acknowledged that many landlords work hard to maintain their properties and that selective licensing helps support these good landlords. At the same time, it provides tools to tackle poor management practices that harm tenants and communities.

Context of selective licensing in the UK rental sector

Selective licensing is a discretionary power available to local authorities in England under the Housing Act 2004. Councils can designate areas where privately rented properties require a licence, usually in response to concerns about low housing standards or antisocial behaviour. The schemes aim to improve housing conditions and create safer, more sustainable communities.

Over recent years, selective licensing has become a more common tool for councils seeking to regulate the private rented sector locally. However, it remains controversial among some landlords who view it as an additional regulatory burden. The government requires councils to demonstrate clear evidence of problems in the proposed areas and to consult widely before introducing schemes.

Burnley Council’s consultation fits within this framework, showing a cautious approach by seeking input before making any licensing decisions. The council’s emphasis on supporting good landlords reflects a broader trend of balancing enforcement with partnership working in the sector.

Practical implications for landlords and agents in Burnley

Landlords in the proposed licensing areas should prepare for the possibility of new licensing requirements. If a scheme goes ahead, landlords will need to apply for a licence, pay fees, and comply with conditions designed to improve property management and tenant protection. This may include ensuring properties meet safety and repair standards, providing tenancy information, and cooperating with council inspections.

Letting agents managing properties in Burnley should monitor the consultation closely and advise clients accordingly. Early engagement with the consultation can help landlords understand the council’s expectations and potentially influence the final scheme design. Agents may also need to update their compliance procedures and documentation to align with any new licensing conditions.

For landlords outside the proposed areas, the consultation signals that local authorities continue to explore licensing as a regulatory tool. It is advisable to stay informed about developments in Burnley and other councils, as licensing proposals can expand or be introduced elsewhere.

Outstanding questions and what landlords should watch for

The consultation does not yet specify the exact boundaries of the proposed selective licensing areas or the detailed licence conditions. These details will be critical in assessing the full impact on landlords and tenants. The consultation feedback will influence the council’s final decision, expected after the closing date in October.

Landlords should also watch for information on licence fees and enforcement policies, which can vary significantly between councils. Understanding the council’s approach to compliance and penalties will be important for managing risks and costs.

It remains unclear how the council will support landlords through the licensing process, such as providing guidance or assistance for compliance. The consultation invites views on the support needed, so landlords and agents may wish to contribute their perspectives to shape helpful measures.

What landlords should consider now

• Review whether any of your properties fall within the proposed licensing areas and prepare to participate in the consultation.
• Gather evidence of your property management standards and tenant communications to demonstrate compliance if licensing is introduced.
• Engage with tenants and local community groups to understand their experiences and concerns, which may inform your consultation response.
• Monitor Burnley Council’s updates and official guidance on the licensing proposals and application process.
• Consider the potential financial and administrative impacts of licensing on your portfolio and factor this into future planning.

Keeping your rental properties compliant with evolving licensing proposals

Membership of The Landlord Association (TLA) offers access to practical compliance resources and up-to-date information on local licensing schemes such as Burnley’s consultation. TLA’s new property management and compliance platform, ORBIT, currently in BETA testing, is designed to help landlords and letting agents organise property records, monitor regulatory developments, and keep evidence of compliance activities together in one place.

ORBIT’s features in testing include tools for recording inspections, repairs, and communications, which can support landlords in meeting selective licensing conditions. Access to TLA’s member compliance support can also assist landlords in responding effectively to consultations and preparing for new licensing requirements.

Explore TLA membership and learn more about ORBIT BETA access to stay informed and organised as local licensing proposals evolve.

Looking ahead, Burnley Council’s consultation highlights the ongoing role of selective licensing in local housing regulation. Landlords and agents should remain alert to similar initiatives elsewhere and consider how best to adapt their management practices to comply with emerging standards.

Sources: Landlord Today