LANDLORD ACCREDITATION SCHEMES
Local authorities have long recognised the important role of the private rented sector in providing accommodation for a diverse range of households.
What is accreditation and what are the benefits for the landlords?
Accreditation is a set of standards (or code) relating to the management or physical condition of privately rented accommodation. Landlords who join a scheme and abide by the standards are 'accredited'. Accreditation schemes are voluntary. There is no compulsion for landlords to join, but there may be many advantages, including:
• the status of being publicly identified as a good landlord
• distancing themselves from incompetent or unscrupulous landlords
• the business advantage of advertising their accredited status to tenants who place emphasis on good quality and well managed accommodation
Incentives offered vary from scheme to scheme but may include:
• a liaison officer who can help landlords to deal with any department of the local authority
• consultation on proposals that may affect landlords, such as changes to legislation or local housing strategies
• access to grants and loans to renovate properties to relevant standards set by the scheme
• advice on how to tackle anti-social behaviour
• discounts and group purchase on goods and services such as property insurance
What are the benefits for the tenants? Tenants can benefit from knowing that if they choose to rent from an accredited landlord, the property will be in good condition and the tenancy will be managed to a high standard.
EAST MIDLANDS LANDLORD ACCREDITATION SCHEME (EMLAS)
What is the East Midlands Landlords Accreditation Scheme (EMLAS)?
A new landlord accreditation scheme has been launched in the East Midlands. The East Midlands Landlord Accreditation Scheme (EMLAS) is the first in the region to accredit the landlord instead of the property.
The aims of the scheme are to establish and promote good standards and practice, to encourage, acknowledge and raise awareness. The scheme covers the East Midlands, and is open to all landlords and managing agents in the region.
To be accredited, landlords and letting agents must abide by the EMLAS Code of Management, landlords must prove they are 'fit and proper', have competent hazard awareness and property management skills and have at least applied for any licences that they should hold by law.
Benefits of the scheme for landlords and letting agents
• support to operate a profitable business in a highly regulated area
• briefing sessions on new legislation and regulations
• professional development courses
• public recognition
• inclusion in the EMLAS property database and website
Benefits of the scheme for tenants
• tenants can choose a quality assured private landlord
• properties covered by the scheme will be listed on the EMLAS website
• assurance that the property meets and will maintain all legal standards
• a tenants' information booklet
How will the scheme work?
The scheme relies on self-certification. Landlords and letting agents will agree to meet the Code of Management, attend an approved registered course and demonstrate a suitable level of ability. The scheme will inspect properties to make sure that landlords are complying with the Code.
EMLAS is currently offering free 3 year membership to join the East Midlands Landlords Accreditation Scheme to landlords/letting agents prior to the 1st April 2009.
Where can I find out more?
Contact details:
East Midlands Landlord Accreditation Scheme,
DASH,
Bio House,
Derwent Street,
Derby,
DE1 2ED
Phone: 01332 256475
Email:
dash@derby.gov.uk