Waltham Forest council are about to launch a new scheme which will determine if privately rented properties throughout the borough are meeting decent standards of both safety and sanitation. The council claim the new Property Accreditation Scheme will help both the landlords and their tenant.
Twelve months ago the council’s cabinet member for housing, Councillor Marie Pye, admitted they had to do more to protect tenants after it came to light that a property which was recommended by the council had a huge array of faults which ended with the tenant lucky to escape a serious injury when the kitchen ceiling collapsed on top of her. The new scheme is the first of its kind in the capital as it is the property that is given accreditation rather than the owner.
The scheme is voluntary and will include advice on repairs and legal issues and it will also promote landlords to possible tenants. Over four thousands properties have already been inspected since January as the council prepared for the launch of the scheme. All landlords with property insurance who join the scheme will see their property prepared for letting, ensuring that every safety check has been carried out by a qualified registered contractor.
Cllr Pye said: “The past decade has seen the number of private sector landlords in the borough double. While we’ve done a great deal of work to make sure our social housing is up to standard, this new scheme means that the many tenants who are privately renting can also expect improved conditions. The scheme is voluntary at the moment, but we hope as many landlords as possible will sign up as it will be better for business in the long run.”
Any landlord who is interested in joining the scheme can visit the council’s website or call the council’s Private Sector Housing Team. Tenants who are concerned about their accommodation can contact the council the same way.