Private Rented Sector Property Accreditation Scheme
What is Property Accreditation?
Mid Beds District Council Property Accreditation Scheme is a voluntary scheme for the private sector landlords in the district.
The aim of the scheme is:
- to raise the overall standard of private sector accommodation
- to provide a quality standard for privately rented properties which is consistent across the district
- to recognise good practices and responsible letting by landlords
- to link this scheme with similar schemes across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire so that landlords with properties under different local authorities can be assured that the same standards will be expected wherever their properties are.
What are the advantages for Landlords?
- Properties accepted on to the Accreditation Scheme will indicate to prospective tenants that the quality of housing reaches Council standards and that it is well equipped, hygienic, safe and secure.
- Landlords will be able to self certify the condition of their property. Only random checks on the property will be carried out by the local authority.
- Properties on the approved list will be available on the Mid Beds District Council website or at the Council Offices on request, giving a market advantage to the landlord.
- Prospective tenants will be able to seek approved properties on the Council's website or on request at the Council's offices.
- The Council will provide a package of information exclusively to landlords relating to their approved properties e.g. information and guidance packs and model documents relating to the Scheme.
- Accreditation Certificates relating to each approved property.
- Periodic free training seminars on important topical issues.
- Information leaflets to pass on to tenants.
What are the advantages for prospective tenants?
When seeking a property to rent, prospective tenants will be able to identify properties in the Accreditation Scheme by looking for the scheme logo. This will ensure that:
- the property meets quality standards assured by the local council
- the accommodation, facilities and furniture supplied meet approved standards of health, safety and comfort
- they will have a clear tenancy agreement and a copy of all agreements
- all repairs are completed quickly and efficiently within identified timescales
- access to the property for maintenance work is sought in advance
- there is a fair approach to dealing with complaints and resolving disputes
The Policy Document, Application Form and Code of Standards are available as downloads on this page, along with details of the Accredited Tenant Scheme.
Once a property has reached a basic standard that will protect the health and safety of the occupant it will become accredited for a one year period. When that period is reaching its expiry the landlord will be sent a self accreditation form and asked to confirm that the property is still of a good standard and being maintained. On receipt of this form a new accreditation certificate will be sent out. A random sample of property inspections will be carried out to annually ensure that standard is being kept up. A list of accredited properties is maintained on this webpage.
Further information can be obtained by contacting the co-ordinating officer on 08458 495 433 or Customer Services on 08452-304040 or 01462 611 222. Alternatively, you can email Customer.Services@midbeds.gov.uk
* Download Property Accreditation Scheme Policy Document and Application Form (application/pdf; 127kb)
* Download Property Accreditation Scheme Code of Standards (application/pdf; 69kb)
* Download Accredited Tenant Scheme (application/pdf; 51kb)
* Download Accredited Property List October 2007 (application/pdf; 5kb)
