Issue - meetings

This report considers the need to continue the Council’s support of the YorProperty Accreditation scheme for the Private Rented Sector following the introduction of new laws.

Resolved:  That the Executive Member approve option 2; to close the YorProperty voluntary accreditation scheme.

Reason:     To ensure that the work of the Council is focussed on tackling the worst conditions in the private rented sector and in particular on those Landlords who flout by not complying with the law in line with government policy.

Officers introduced the item and explained that they were asking the Executive Member to approve Option 2, to close the YorProperty Accreditation Scheme.

It was explained that the YorProperty Scheme had originally been successful in helping compensate for the gaps in regulation of the private rented sector, however following the introduction of new HMO licensing laws in October 2018, many of the features associated with the scheme had become a mandatory part of licensing law.

Officers stated that since the changes, the YorProperty accreditation had only generated £2,245 and that this did not cover the costs of running the accreditation.

Officers also noted that they had informed all Landlords who were signed up to YorProperty that this paper would be brought to the Executive Member and that should it be approved, membership fees will be refunded for this year.

The Executive Member was satisfied that the loss of the scheme would not be at a detriment to the quality of accommodation being provided in the City. It was therefore:

Resolved:  That the Executive Member approve option 2; to close the YorProperty voluntary accreditation scheme.

Reason:     To ensure that the work of the Council is focussed on tackling the worst conditions in the private rented sector and in particular on those Landlords who flout by not complying with the law in line with government policy.