Cheshire East Council HMO licensing
Cheshire East Council does not currently operate a selective licensing scheme across Macclesfield. Mandatory HMO licensing applies nationally to properties with 5+ persons from 2+ households. Verify current requirements with the council before letting.
Renters' Rights Act 2025
From 1 May 2026, all English tenancies including Macclesfield operate under the RRA 2025 framework:
- Section 21 abolished � all possessions require a statutory ground
- All new lets are periodic from day one
- Property Portal registration and PRS Ombudsman membership mandatory before letting
- Rent increases via statutory Section 13 notice only
EPC and safety requirements
Macclesfield's Victorian mill workers' terraces have solid-wall construction presenting Band C upgrade challenges:
- Current minimum: EPC Band E
- Band C target confirmed for 2030; solid-wall properties may need solid wall insulation � cost cap exemption available if �15,000 spent without reaching Band C
- Annual gas safety certificate (CP12) mandatory; 5-yearly EICR mandatory
- Smoke alarms on every storey; CO alarms in every room with a gas appliance
- Deposit: 5 weeks' rent protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days