 A new scheme to improve private rented accommodation and benefit both landlords and tenants across North Somerset is to be introduced.
The North Somerset Property Accreditation Scheme is free to join, has been developed for landlords by landlords and will be administered by North Somerset Council.
The scheme will look at the physical quality and management of private rented accommodation and then award accreditation status. There are two levels of accreditation, "Accreditation" which is entry level and "Accreditation Plus" the higher standard.
Once accreditation has been awarded, landlords will be able to benefit from the scheme incentives. There will be various discounts offered from companies across North Somerset, including, discounts with electricians, plumbers as well as DIY stores and energy assessors. The list of benefits is ever increasing.
Spokesman for the Accreditation Steering Group and local landlord, Gary Twinn said: "This is a positive step forward for the private housing sector in North Somerset. Good quality property that is well managed and maintained is recognised at last.
"The scheme will give potential tenants the ability to make valued judgements on the property they chose rather than take pot luck. It will make a huge difference in our sector."
Agents can also get involved with the scheme. Member of the Accreditation Steering Group and Biscal Homes Director, Paul Calcutt said: "Along with a few other agents on the steering group, we are offering landlords with their initial valuation, an accreditation check to see if it meets the standard. We will even fill out all the relevant paperwork on their behalf.
"As part of the Accreditation Steering Group, Biscal Homes is taking an active part in the developing of the accreditation scheme. Our landlords will be delighted with the benefits the scheme offers as well as the tenants who will be happy knowing they are renting a safe, well managed property."
Agents will be recognised for promoting the scheme and featured in the accreditation packs. Details of the accredited properties will also be made available to the public through the Housing Benefit desk in the Town Hall, Weston-super-Mare free of charge.
The North Somerset Property Accreditation Scheme is due for launch at the beginning of November.
If you have any queries about the scheme, or if you are a company who would like to get involved, please contact the Accreditation Officer on (01275) 884 431.
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