London Landlord Accreditation Scheme

We have a strategic approach to the housing needs of everyone in our community and recognise the important role the private rented sector has in providing accommodation for a diverse range of households.

As part of this new approach, we have set up a London wide voluntary accreditation scheme, the London Landlord Accreditation Scheme, LLAS, that recognised landlords who manage their properties to a good standard and is recognised across the whole of London.

What is accreditation?

Accreditation is voluntary with a set of standards relating to the management or physical condition of privately rented accommodation. Landlords who join the scheme and abide by the standards are "accredited" and are recognised across London as good landlords. There is no compulsion for landlords to join, but there are many advantages.

Who can join the London Landlord Accreditation Scheme (LLAS)?

The scheme is open to any landlord and also to those who are considering becoming a landlord. A landlord does not necessarily have to own any property in London to join.

What are the aims of the London Landlord Accreditation Scheme (LLAS)?

To provide landlords across London with information and professional development opportunities to:

• allow them to operate a successful business
• provide their tenants with safe and high quality accommodation
• reduce the need for intervention from Local Authorities

What are the requirements of the London Landlord Accreditation Scheme (LLAS)?

The LLAS will accredit the landlord, not the property. A landlord will need to:

• attend a one day development course to obtain the knowledge and skills to help operate run their business successfully
• agree to follow a code of conduct
• be a fit and proper person

What does the Code of Conduct require?

It requires landlords to comply with the law and to carry out urgent works promptly. If additional work is needed, a landlord must draw up a plan of action. It is based on the 'National Federal of Residential Landlords' (NFRL) code.

Who is a “fit and proper” person?

A person who has not committed any offences or had actions taken against then as detailed in the Housing Act. Convictions for harassment, discrimination and certain legal orders may disqualify an applicant.

What are the benefits to landlords of being accredited?

Apart from gaining the knowledge to be a good landlord, and being recognised as a good landlord, there are many other advantages including:

• grant money and loans for accredited landlords to improve their premises
• reduced fees for licensing under the new Housing Act
• preferential treatment by universities
• a regularly updated reference manual
• discounted materials and services

What benefits are there for tenants?

Tenants can benefit from knowing that if they choose to rent from an accredited landlord, the property will be in good condition and the tenancy will be managed to a good standard.

What benefits are there for local communities?

It is in everyone's interests if housing is well managed and kept in good condition. The scheme can help to increase the supply of good quality accommodation, to the benefit to existing tenants and potential tenants who may not have considered renting privately in the past. It also helps to foster better landlord/tenant relationships and reduces the need for intervention by council officers.

How long does the accreditation last?

Five years and the landlord will be re-accredited automatically provided they:

• have not breached the code of conduct
• have taken steps to keep up to date changes in the law

Attendance at the annual London Landlords Day event, local landlords forum and additional training events etc. will count towards re-accreditation as will membership of a recognised landlords organisation.

Who operates the LLAS accreditation scheme?

The scheme is a partnership made up of the majority of London Councils, Landlord Associations and also University and NHS accommodation units. The scheme is administered by Camden on behalf of the partnership.

Can letting agents join an accreditation scheme?

• Download: Criteria for Agents and Company accreditation (PDF)

The London Private Sector Housing Partnership works with landlords to promote good management and business practice, and to increase the supply of quality rented homes for the benefit of London’s tenants, www.londonlandlords.org.uk

The National Approved Letting Scheme is a separate accreditation scheme, which is open to all letting agents and estate agents who manage residential accommodation. The scheme sets minimum service standards for agents and requires them to handle their clients' money safely.

More information can be found on the NALS website at, www.nalscheme.co.uk

Where can I find out more?

For more general information about accreditation, contact the National Accreditation Network UK - www.londonlandlords.org.uk

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has published research and good practice guidance on landlord accreditation schemes, www.odpm.gov.uk

Contact

For more information please please contact the environmental health team

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Page last updated Jun 7, 2011 4:01 PM