What Is a Selective Landlord Licence —and Do You Need One in St Helens & Warrington?

Renting out a property brings both rewards and responsibilities. If you own or manage a rental in St Helens, Warrington, or nearby parts of Merseyside, it’s important to know whether you’re legally required to hold a Selective Landlord Licence.

Let’s break it down in simple terms—no jargon, just the key info you need to protect your investment and avoid unexpected fines.

What Is a Selective Landlord Licence?

A Selective Licence is a legal requirement introduced by some councils under the Housing Act 2004. It applies to privately rented properties in designated areas where the local authority believes additional regulation is needed to:

Improve housing standards

Reduce anti-social behaviour

Ensure landlords are meeting their responsibilities

This licence isn’t just for HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation)—it can apply to any privately rented property, even a single-family home.

What Is a Selective Landlord Licence?

A Selective Licence is a legal requirement introduced by some councils under the Housing Act 2004. It applies to privately rented properties in designated areas where the local authority believes additional regulation is needed to:

Improve housing standards

Reduce anti-social behaviour

Ensure landlords are meeting their responsibilities

This licence isn’t just for HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation)—it can apply to any privately rented property, even a single-family home.

What Is a Selective Landlord Licence?

A Selective Licence is a legal requirement introduced by some councils under the Housing Act 2004. It applies to privately rented properties in designated areas where the local authority believes additional regulation is needed to:

Improve housing standards

Reduce anti-social behaviour

Ensure landlords are meeting their responsibilities

This licence isn’t just for HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation)—it can apply to any privately rented property, even a single-family home.

What Happens If You Don’t Have One?

Failing to hold the correct licence can lead to:

Fines up to £30,000

Rent Repayment Orders for up to 12 months

Banning Orders in serious or repeat cases

Difficulty selling or remortgaging the property

And remember—tenants can check if you're licensed. Being unlicensed could also damage trust and your professional image.

How Do You Get One (If Required)?

It’s usually a simple application to the council:

Submit documents (EPC, gas safety, tenancy agreement)

Pay a fee (typically £400–£900 depending on the area)

Wait for approval—some councils inspect first

Receive your licence (valid for up to 5 years)

How We Help at V6 Property Management

At V6 Property Management, we’re a local family-run agency based near St Helens, and we’re here to make your life as a landlord easier.

If you're unsure about licensing:

✅ We’ll check your property postcode for you, free of charge

✅ We can advise or apply on your behalf if a licence is ever needed

✅ We manage properties with compliance in mind—so you avoid surprises

We look after your property like it’s our own, and we’re proud to offer personal, down-to-earth service tailored to landlords in our community.

Final Thoughts

Right now, St Helens and Warrington don’t require Selective Landlord Licensing—but councils can and do change these rules. If you want peace of mind, or just need honest, local advice, we’re always here for a chat.

Get in touch with V6 Property Management today. Whether you’re managing one property or many, we’ll help you stay on top of everything—without the stress.