Wigan runs 3 schemes relevant to property investors: empty-home renovation funding plus landlord incentives (guaranteed rent, rent in advance or deposit cover) for letting to council-referred tenants. Each scheme below links to the council's own page where you can verify eligibility and apply.
For lettings arranged through the council's Tenant Matching Service, the council provides a bond guarantee in place of the usual cash deposit, claimable against property damage and/or rent arrears up to the value of 5 weeks' rent. The property must pass council compliance checks before a tenancy offer goes ahead.
Owners of long-term vacant properties in significant disrepair. Refurbished home leased to the council Ethical Lettings Agency to provide affordable housing, with rental income offsetting the upfront investment. No outstanding council debts including council tax arrears on the empty property. Limited places.
Wigan Council's Ethical Lettings Agency matches landlords with vetted tenants, prioritising people who are homeless or at risk and owed a housing duty. The council must be satisfied the property is safe and compliant (gas safety certificate, EICR, EPC) before any nomination. A £100 payment is made to the landlord by BACS once the tenancy has begun; council financial assistance is available where rent in advance is required.
A property is classed as "long-term empty" once it has been unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for a qualifying period. The premium is charged on top of the standard council tax bill.
Empty Home Investment Scheme (EHIS): up to £25,000 for renovation works on long-term vacant properties in significant disrepair. Refurbished homes leased to the council Ethical Lettings Agency to provide affordable housing while rental income repays the investment.