Stoke-on-Trent continues to attract landlords and property investors from across the UK, and it is not difficult to see why. Gross rental yields of 6.6% to 7%+ in postcodes such as ST1, ST4 and ST6 are among the most competitive in the Midlands. But with strong returns comes a compliance landscape that demands careful attention — and in 2026, that landscape is more detailed than ever.
If you own rental property in areas such as Cobridge, Tunstall, Fenton or Longton, this guide covers what you need to know right now.
What selective licensing means for Stoke-on-Trent landlords
Selective licensing is a council-led scheme that requires private landlords in designated areas to obtain a licence for each rental property they let, regardless of property size or the number of tenants.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council has used selective licensing powers under the Housing Act 2004 to target areas with higher levels of deprivation, anti-social behaviour or poor housing conditions. Cobridge and Tunstall have both been within the scope of active or recent selective licensing designations, and landlords operating in these areas should confirm their current obligations directly with the council or through a qualified letting agent.
Failing to hold a valid licence where one is required is a criminal offence. Landlords can face civil penalties of up to £30,000 per property, and in some cases, a rent repayment order can be issued — meaning tenants may reclaim up to 12 months of rent paid during an unlicensed period.
Which postcodes and areas are affected in 2026
ST1 and the Cobridge corridor
The ST1 postcode, covering Hanley and Cobridge, has historically been a focus area for Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s licensing activity. Cobridge in particular has seen sustained enforcement attention, given its mix of older terraced housing stock and higher rental demand from lower-income households.
Landlords with properties in this corridor should not assume that a previous licence remains valid. Selective licensing designations are time-limited, typically running for five years, and renewal or redesignation can alter the boundaries and conditions that apply.
ST6 and Tunstall
Tunstall, sitting within the ST6 postcode, is another area where selective licensing has been a live issue. The town’s affordable property prices have drawn investors seeking high-yield opportunities, but those same characteristics have made it a target for council intervention under licensing frameworks.
If you have recently acquired a property in Tunstall or are considering doing so, verifying licensing requirements before completing a purchase or beginning a tenancy is essential.
ST4 and wider Stoke
ST4, covering the Stoke and Fenton areas, also falls within the city’s broader private rented sector oversight. While selective licensing designations here may differ from Cobridge and Tunstall, landlords should not overlook the council’s citywide approach to housing standards enforcement.
HMO licensing: a separate but connected obligation
Selective licensing applies to standard single-household lets. If your property is occupied by three or more tenants from more than one household who share facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom, it is likely classified as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO).
HMOs in Stoke-on-Trent are subject to mandatory licensing where they have five or more occupants from two or more households across three or more storeys. Smaller HMOs may still require an additional HMO licence under Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s additional licensing scheme, where applicable.
HMO compliance involves more than just the licence itself. Room size requirements, fire safety standards, amenity provisions and management regulations all apply — and non-compliance carries serious financial and legal consequences.
Core compliance obligations every Stoke-on-Trent landlord must meet
Gas safety and electrical standards
All privately rented properties require a valid gas safety certificate renewed annually and an electrical installation condition report (EICR) every five years. These are not optional — they are legal requirements, and copies must be provided to tenants at the start of a tenancy and on request.
Energy performance certificates
A valid EPC rated E or above is required for all new tenancies and renewals. Proposed changes to minimum EPC standards are progressing through government consultation, and landlords with lower-rated stock in areas like Cobridge and Tunstall should plan ahead for potential upgrades.
Deposit protection
Any tenancy deposit must be registered with a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme within 30 days of receipt. At Martin & Co Stoke-on-Trent, we handle deposit protection as a standard part of our lettings service, using government-approved schemes and ensuring full compliance with prescribed information requirements.
Right to rent checks
Landlords in England are legally required to verify that all adult occupants have the right to rent in the UK before a tenancy begins. Checks must be documented, and follow-up checks are required for tenants with time-limited immigration status.
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Smoke alarms must be fitted on every floor of the property and carbon monoxide alarms in any room with a fixed combustion appliance. These must be tested at the start of each tenancy and kept in working order throughout.
How to stay compliant without losing sleep
The volume of obligations facing landlords in Stoke-on-Trent in 2026 is significant — and that is before accounting for day-to-day property management, maintenance and tenant communication. For portfolio landlords managing multiple properties across ST1, ST4 and ST6, the administrative burden alone can become a full-time task.
This is where working with an experienced local letting agent makes a material difference.
At Martin & Co Stoke-on-Trent, we manage compliance as a core part of what we do — not an afterthought. Our team understands the specific licensing landscape across Cobridge, Tunstall and the wider city, and we keep up to date with changes to Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s designation areas as they evolve.
Flexible management options to suit every landlord
We offer a range of services designed to match how hands-on you want to be. Our Premium Managed service provides full property management with rent and legal protection included, giving you guaranteed rental income and no legal bills. Our managed service covers 24/7 maintenance, compliance oversight and regular inspections. For landlords who prefer to stay involved, our rent collection and tenant-finding options provide targeted support where it matters most.
Whatever your portfolio size — whether you own one property in Hanley or twenty across the city’s high-yield postcodes — we work with you to make letting straightforward and stress-free.
Why compliance matters more than ever in 2026
Enforcement activity by local authorities across England has increased significantly in recent years. Stoke-on-Trent City Council has demonstrated a clear willingness to use its powers under the Housing Act 2004, and landlords who take a reactive rather than proactive approach to compliance are increasingly exposed.
Beyond financial penalties, unlicensed landlords can face restrictions on serving valid Section 21 notices, creating practical difficulties when seeking possession of a property. Getting compliance right from the outset protects both your investment and your legal position.
With over 30 years of experience in residential lettings and more than 41,000 properties managed across our network, Martin & Co brings the depth of knowledge and local expertise that Stoke-on-Trent landlords need to navigate this environment with confidence.
Take the next step with Martin & Co Stoke-on-Trent
Whether you are a new landlord preparing to let your first property in Tunstall or an experienced investor managing a portfolio across ST1 and ST6, we are here to help you stay compliant, protect your returns and simplify every part of the letting process.
Get in touch with Martin & Co Stoke-on-Trent today to speak with a member of our local team about your property and your obligations. We will give you clear, straightforward guidance with no obligation.
Ready to find out what your property is worth? Book a free valuation with our Stoke-on-Trent team and take the first step towards a more confident, compliant letting experience.
