Council Consultation on Citywide HMO Licensing

Salford City Council has announced a consultation on a new citywide additional licensing scheme for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). The council is seeking feedback from residents, landlords, letting agents, and businesses on the proposed scheme, which aims to improve management and conditions in HMOs across the city.

This initiative follows approval of the licensing proposals and reflects growing concerns about the state of shared housing in Salford.

Public Health Crisis Declared by Mayor

Salford City Council Mayor Paul Dennett has described the issues surrounding HMOs as a “public health crisis.” According to a report by Manchester World, the mayor stated in a council meeting: “Landlords should be ashamed of themselves operating these sorts of properties in the city of Salford.”

His comments underline the council’s serious stance on the matter and the urgency to raise housing standards.

Findings Reveal Poor Housing Conditions

Mayor Dennett highlighted concerning results from initial research conducted by council officers. He said: “Information shows that a huge proportion of Section 257 HMOs failed to meet expected property standards.”

The research identified issues including poor maintenance, damp, and inadequate energy efficiency, which contribute to cold and unhealthy living environments. Additionally, the majority of inspected HMOs did not comply with minimum fire safety standards.

He emphasised the council’s responsibility to act, stating: “People should be able to rely on a safe and well-managed home in this city. And residents living near HMOs should not have to put up with antisocial behaviour.”

Legal Framework and Enforcement

Under the Housing Act 2004, local authorities have the power to introduce additional licensing schemes where there is evidence of poor management in HMOs. Before implementing such schemes, councils must demonstrate the scale of the problem and consult local stakeholders.

Salford City Council has already taken enforcement action, issuing £2.2 million in fines to landlords renting out unsafe homes. Notably, over £500,000 in fines were levied against 26 HMO landlords in July alone.

The council has reinvested these funds into housing standards and inspection teams to further improve conditions and compliance.

What This Means for Landlords

Landlords operating HMOs in Salford should prepare for potential additional licensing requirements that will impose stricter management and safety standards. The consultation period offers an opportunity for landlords and agents to provide input on the proposed scheme.

Compliance with licensing conditions will be essential to avoid fines and enforcement action. The council’s focus on improving energy efficiency, fire safety, and property maintenance reflects broader regulatory trends affecting the private rented sector.

Engagement with the consultation and proactive property management will help landlords align with the council’s objectives and contribute to safer, healthier housing in Salford.

Next Steps

The consultation will inform the council’s decision on implementing the additional licensing scheme. Landlords and other stakeholders are encouraged to participate and share their views during this process.

Further details and updates will be available through Salford City Council’s official channels as the scheme progresses.

Suggested internal link anchors

• HMO licensing scheme
• housing standards
• fire safety standards
• additional licensing
• Housing Act 2004
• landlord fines
• property maintenance
• energy efficiency
• antisocial behaviour
• private rented sector
• letting agents
• tenant safety

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/