Which Areas Are Covered?
City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council's selective licensing covers specific wards. Only properties within the designated areas need a selective licence. Properties outside these wards are not covered (though mandatory HMO licensing still applies where relevant).
Bradford's scheme focuses on inner-city wards with the highest concentration of private rented housing and associated issues with property conditions.
Licence Fees and Costs
| Fee Type | Amount | Per Year (5yr licence) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard licence fee | £600 | £120/year |
| Discounted fee | £480 | £96/year |
The licence fee is per property and covers the full 5-year licence period. This is a one-off cost, not an annual charge. Factor this into your investment calculations alongside other acquisition and compliance costs.
Licence Requirements and Conditions
To obtain and maintain a selective licence, your property must meet the following conditions:
- Annual Gas Safety Certificate
- Smoke alarms on every floor
- Carbon monoxide alarms where required
- EPC minimum E rating
- EICR within 5 years
- Written tenancy agreement
- References for all tenants
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Renting a property that requires a selective licence without obtaining one is a criminal offence under Section 95 of the Housing Act 2004. The consequences can be severe:
- Civil penalty: Up to £30,000 per offence (alternative to prosecution)
- Criminal prosecution: Unlimited fine on conviction in magistrates' court
- Rent Repayment Order: Tenants can apply to the First-tier Tribunal to recover up to 12 months' rent
- Section 21 restriction: You cannot serve a valid Section 21 notice while the property is unlicensed
- Management order: The council can apply to take over management of the property
How to Apply
- Check if your property is in a covered area. Check the ward list above or use the council's online checker.
- Gather required documents: Gas Safety Certificate, EPC, EICR, proof of landlord identity, tenancy agreement.
- Apply online through City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council's licensing portal.
- Pay the licence fee (£600 standard or £480 discounted).
- Await inspection and approval. The council may inspect the property as part of the application process.
Apply on the City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council website: www.bradford.gov.uk/housing/selective-licensing/
Exemptions
The following property types are typically exempt from selective licensing:
- Mandatory licensed HMOs
- Social housing
- Holiday lets
Exemptions should be confirmed directly with City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council. Do not assume your property is exempt without verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about this topic.
Related Pages
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Disclaimer: Selective licensing schemes change frequently. Information on this page is researched as of April 2026 but may not reflect the latest council decisions. Always verify fees, covered areas, and requirements directly with City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council before making investment or licensing decisions. This does not constitute legal advice.