Issue - meetings

This report builds on earlier recommendations regarding the introduction of a Citywide Private Landlord Accreditation Scheme in York to support and improve the Private Rented Sector.

RESOLVED:       That Cabinet agree to:

i) Approving the implementation of a locally developed Landlord accreditation scheme, as detailed in Option 4 of the report and authorise further consultation and partnership work with local landlords, agents and other stakeholders, to agree the final details of the Scheme, with a view to it being operational by June 2013.

ii)   Authorising the Director of Communities and Neighbourhoods, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Health, Housing and Adult Social Services, to take forward and implement the Landlord Accreditation Scheme as appropriate when the development process is complete.

REASON:     i)     To ensure the support and improvement of the Private Rented Sector in York.

   ii)    To ensure the Scheme is developed in consultation with potential members; is fit for purpose and appeals to as wide a number of landlords and agents as possible to enable a positive start and that it complements any other proposals for supporting the Private Rented Sector.

Consideration was given to a report which set out details regarding the introduction of a Citywide Private Landlord Accreditation Scheme to support and improve the private rented sector.

It was reported that the private rented sector made up an estimated 17.8% of the housing stock in the city and an Accreditation Scheme for landlords would provide a means of defining and regulating standards and supporting the provision of the types of accommodation the market demanded. To be effective any scheme would need to influence the standards of the local market and would require membership of at least 10% of the landlord market to be effective.

The following were the options proposed and analysed in paragraphs 20 to 37 of the report:

Option 1 – Take no further action with regard to the introduction of an accreditation scheme.

Option 2 – Support another organisation in establishing a landlord accreditation scheme in York.

Option 3 – Negotiate with one of the national industry bodies for the provision of a scheme in York on behalf of the City of York Council.

Option 4 – Develop and implement a specific York Voluntary Landlord Accreditation Scheme, or develop a wider ranging North Yorkshire scheme in co-operation with other local authorities in the area.

Option 5 – Develop a more limited scheme to add value to the existing York Code of Best Practice for Student Accommodation Scheme.

Significant consultation had been undertaken and the financial and equalities implications were provided at paragraphs 38 to 47.

The Cabinet Member confirmed the intention to work in partnership with landlords, the vast majority of which provided an excellent service however it was the small minority who ignored legislation and best practice.

RESOLVED:       That Cabinet agree to:

i) Approving the implementation of a locally developed Landlord accreditation scheme, as detailed in Option 4 of the report and authorise further consultation and partnership work with local landlords, agents and other stakeholders, to agree the final details of the Scheme, with a view to it being operational by June 2013.

ii)   Authorising the Director of Communities and Neighbourhoods, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Health, Housing and Adult Social Services, to take forward and implement the Landlord Accreditation Scheme as appropriate when the development process is complete. ^1.

REASON:     i)    To ensure the support and improvement of the Private Rented Sector in York.

   ii)    To ensure the Scheme is developed in consultation with potential members; is fit for purpose and appeals to as wide a number of landlords and agents as possible to enable a positive start and that it complements any other proposals for supporting the Private Rented Sector.