Manchester City Council operates one of the largest selective licensing schemes in the UK. If you rent out a property in a designated selective licensing area, you are legally required to obtain a licence — and a valid EICR is one of the core conditions. Failure to comply can result in prosecution, unlimited fines, and rent repayment orders.
What Is Selective Licensing?
Selective licensing allows local authorities to require all landlords in a designated area to hold a licence for privately rented properties. The scheme is typically introduced in areas with high levels of anti-social behaviour, poor property conditions, or low housing demand. Manchester\'s selective licensing areas cover significant portions of the city, including parts of Moss Side, Rusholme, Gorton, Longsight, and many other neighbourhoods.
To obtain a selective licence, landlords must demonstrate that their property meets minimum standards for management, safety, and condition. A valid EICR is a mandatory requirement — without one, your application will be refused.
You can check whether your property falls within a selective licensing area on the Manchester City Council website. If it does, you must apply for a licence and provide a satisfactory EICR as part of the application.
Electrical Safety Conditions in Selective Licensing
Manchester City Council\'s selective licence conditions specifically require:
- A valid EICR carried out by a competent person, renewed every 5 years
- All C1 and C2 observations must be remedied within the timeframe specified in the report
- Proof that remedial work has been completed (typically an invoice or completion certificate from the electrician)
- All electrical installations must comply with the current edition of BS 7671
- RCD protection must be provided for socket outlets in locations where water is present (kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms)
Penalties for Unlicensed Renting
If you rent out a property in a selective licensing area without a valid licence, the consequences are severe:
- Civil penalty of up to £30,000
- Criminal prosecution with an unlimited fine
- Rent repayment orders — tenants can reclaim up to 12 months of rent
- Banning orders that prevent you from acting as a landlord
- Publication of your details on the council's rogue landlord database
How to Prepare Your Application
The most efficient approach is to obtain your EICR first, then apply for the licence. If your EICR is satisfactory with no C1, C2, or FI observations, you can submit it directly with your application. If remedial work is needed, complete it promptly and obtain the updated satisfactory certificate before applying. We can help you prepare all the documentation needed for your selective licence application — contact us for assistance.
