Greater Manchester’s Good Landlord Charter now covers 50% of rented homes

Greater Manchester’s Good Landlord Charter now covers more than 234,000 rented properties, which is half of the city-region’s rental households.

Launched in April, the initiative is a cornerstone of the mayor’s Andy Burnham’s bid to ensure every resident has access to a safe, secure, affordable and healthy home by 2038.

The Charter, the first of its kind in the UK, has attracted more than 100 landlords from both social and private sectors, who have pledged to elevate standards beyond legal requirements.

The voluntary scheme sets a benchmark for quality, encouraging landlords to provide well-maintained homes, treat tenants fairly and offer support for those facing financial or accessibility challenges.

A dedicated website helps renters identify compliant landlords while offering guidance to property owners committed to excellence.

Drive up housing standards

Mr Burnham said: “We are entering a new era for renting in Greater Manchester.

“We’re making it clear that renting out sub-standard properties, which damage the health of our residents, will no longer be tolerated.

“This city-region is getting serious about driving up housing standards and delivering on the promise of a good home for everyone.”

He added: “We know there are many good landlords out there and the Charter will give them the recognition they deserve.

“It will also help isolate those who require further attention from our enforcement teams.

“The £1.47 million of civil penalties our local authorities have issued in the last two years show we’re holding the most negligent landlords to account.”

Landlord fines are reinvested

The Charter recognises responsible landlords while cracking down on those who neglect their duties.

Since 2024, enforcement efforts have intensified, with the landlord fines being reinvested into local enforcement teams to further protect tenants from substandard housing.

Chris Norris, the chief policy officer of the National Residential Landlords Association, said: “We were pleased to be able to help shape a charter from the outset.

“What has been created will help improve the renting experience whilst taking into account the challenges landlords providing quality homes.”

He adds: “What sets the GMCA Good Landlord Charter apart is its commitment to reconcile the views of a wide array of different organisations.

“It is rightly committed to rooting out rogue landlords whilst at the same time supporting, recognising and promoting the contribution of the overwhelming majority of landlords who provide high-quality private rented accommodation.”