Landlord licensing in Stoke-on-Trent City Council
West Midlands · England · Postcode areas ST1, ST2, ST3
Licensing at a glance
- HMO licensing
- Mandatory HMO licensing applies to properties occupied by five or more persons forming two or more separate households, where facilities such as kitchens or bathrooms are shared. Stoke-on-Trent City Council enforces this for all such properties, regardless of the number of storeys.
- Additional licensing
- Stoke-on-Trent City Council has implemented additional licensing schemes for smaller HMOs, typically those occupied by three or four tenants forming two or more households. These schemes target specific areas within the city to improve management and housing conditions, as permitted under the Housing Act 2004.
- Selective licensing
- Stoke-on-Trent City Council has implemented selective licensing schemes in various wards and streets across the city. These schemes require all privately rented properties within the designated areas to be licensed, aiming to improve housing standards and neighbourhood management.
- Typical fees
- Licence fees typically range between £800 and £1,000 for a five-year licence, with potential discounts available for accredited landlords or early applications. Specific fees and up-to-date information are detailed on the council's website.
- Towns covered
- Stoke-on-Trent, Hanley
What this means for you
In England, landlords letting property are subject to the Housing Act 2004 and, from 2026, the Renters' Rights Act 2025. Key responsibilities include ensuring properties are safe, well-maintained, and comply with the Decent Homes Standard. Landlords must respect tenants' rights to quiet enjoyment and adhere to new regulations on tenancy terms, rent increases, and possession grounds. Compliance with the new possession grounds is critical. Certain properties, such as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), and those in designated areas, may require a licence from Stoke-on-Trent City Council. Compliance is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure legal operation.
Official links
Licensing designations, fees and boundaries change regularly. This page is a general summary, not legal advice — always confirm the position for the exact address with Stoke-on-Trent City Council before letting. Last reviewed 1 October 2026.