Date: 23/09/2008
Residents in the High Peak and Derbyshire Dales, who rent private accommodation, can now be protected -- thanks to a joint scheme that will ensure that all rented property are of a high standard and good quality.
The Landlord Accreditation scheme aims to improve the standards of private rented accommodation and to develop closer working links between the two councils and private landlords -- the scheme will be managed by Adullam Homes Housing Association, on behalf of High Peak Borough Council and Derbyshire Dales District Council.
The development of the scheme has been based on consultation carried out earlier this year. Landlords with properties in both boroughs were given the opportunity to gather information, give their opinions about the proposed scheme and to talk to representatives of the fire, police and energy efficiency services, High Peak Community Housing, Environmental Health Officers and the National Landlords Association.
Andrew Bingham, Executive Councillor for Social and Community Development, said: "It is important in any community that private rented housing is managed professionally. Through the launch of this new scheme, tenants can now be assured that if they take a tenancy with an accredited landlord, their property will be well maintained and will adhere to set criteria.
"Landlords will be expected to meet certain standards in both the physical condition of their properties and the management of them. There will be two 'levels' of accreditation -- a standard and a premier. We want to encourage as many landlords as possible to participate in the scheme, which will be voluntary and free."
For further information, or to become an accredited landlord, please contact Ruth Ward Accreditation Officer by calling 01298 73798 or 07795 351875, or visit www.privatesectorhousing.org.uk (external website**).
Photo: Local landlords (from left) Steve Preston and Elizabeth Chambers (landlords) met High Peak Councillor Andrew Bingham, Executive Councillor for Social and Community Development, to support the launch of the new Landlord Accreditation Scheme.