Accreditation scheme relaunched in bid to attract mor...

Plans are underway to relaunch a landlord accreditation scheme - with a difference.

Barnsley’s landlord accreditation scheme began in 2010 and the relaunch idea involves the use of an online service called LocalPad.

It will provide a ‘one stop shop’ for to landlords seeking accreditation, advice and assistance in managing their properties and their tenancies. It will include information and guidance for both landlords and tenants.

If approved by the local authority next week, the scheme will enable the council to work more closely with landlords to improve the quality of private rented housing in the borough, and improve the quality of support given to private rented tenants.

It will also ensure that landlords are aware of opportunities to improve the energy efficiency of their homes to reduce carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty.

The proposals have been developed following consultation with landlords.

Councillor Tim Cheetham, cabinet spokesperson on housing, says: “It’s estimated we have more than 21,000 privately rented properties, which is about a fifth of all our housing, and it’s increased by five per cent since 2011.

“The current scheme involves about 175 different private landlords who have signed up. We’d like to grow this number and work with more of our landlords.

“The proposed new online one-stop shop will allow tenants to engage with their landlords in a really positive way, hopefully reducing property disrepair, illegal evictions, antisocial behaviour and homelessness.”

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