Manchester landlords and agents sign up to new ‘ren...

At least 14 agents and landlords have signed a so-called ‘Renting Pledge’ launched by Manchester council.

Signatories include agencies with large portfolios - Urbanbubble with 5,500 properties in central Manchester, Touchstone with 500 units, Contour Homes with 600 and Beech Properties with 100.

Organisations including the NLA, RLA, ARLA, ARMA, NALS and Manchester Student Homes have also signed.

The pledge is a bid by the council to promote higher standards within the private rental sector, with nine commitments (some of which are already legally obligatory):

I will protect the tenant’s deposit: through an approved deposit protection scheme.
I will supply a written tenancy agreement: it will include the rent and other charges, how to pay, the length of the tenancy and how it can be ended, a list of the contents and their condition, and who pays bills and council tax.
I will provide a safe, comfortable, well-maintained home: it will have a gas safety certificate, annual gas checks, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and an energy performance certificate.
I will give contact details and notice: including emergency numbers and 24 hours’ notice if I'm visiting.
I will do repairs promptly: if there’s a risk to the tenant or the property, I will deal with it straight away, and will carry out urgent repairs within a few working days.
I will deal with antisocial behaviour and nuisance: if my tenant is troubled by other people's behaviour, of if other people complain about my tenant, I will deal with it quickly.
I will look after the outside: I will keep the exterior and outside areas of the building in good condition.
I will be a member of a redress scheme.
I will consider joining a professional organisation: such as the National Landlords Association, Residential Landlords Association, Association of Residential Lettings Agents, Association of Residential Managing Agents, Manchester Student Homes.

Tenants can also sign a pledge stating:

I will pay my rent on time: even if I have a dispute with my landlord.
I will look after my home: I will tell the landlord straight away if I need a repair; and get their permission if I want to make improvements or do my own repairs.
I will be a good neighbour: I will keep noise down, and keep the area around my home clean and tidy.