Landlords Accreditation Scheme
It is estimated that Winchester is home to more than 6000 students who currently reside in private rented accommodation. It is this population that the accreditation scheme initially aims to approach.
The aim of the scheme is to:
- Establish standards for private rented student housing
- Promote awareness of such standards with both landlords and tenants
- Encourage and assist landlords in meeting accreditation standards
- Give recognition to properties and landlords which meet the standards
- Allow students to choose accredited accommodation
- Improve communication between landlords and Winchester City Council
The scheme will ensure that student housing in Winchester will be safe, secure, and well managed. The standards set for the accreditation scheme are believed to be reasonable and appropriate for the owners and students who reside in the accommodation.
The property standards will consider:
- Gas safety
- Electrical safety
- Fire safety
- Security
- Furniture and furnishings
- Amenities: kitchen, bathrooms and WC's
- Energy efficiency
- Property condition and decoration (external and internal)
- Management
A number of the standards utilised should be the basis of any letting such as keeping them in a structurally sound condition, free from damp, ensuring the furniture provided complies with fire safety regulations, providing safe gas and electrical systems and so forth.
As part of the accreditation scheme fire safety has been given high priority including fire doors and additional sockets to avoid overloading electrical systems.
Security has also been given high priority with respect to the construction of doors, locks and windows.
The basic requirements to enable students to cook, prepare and store food safely has been an important consideration within the scheme.
Bathroom and WC facilities must also be suitable for the number of students at the property and suitably located.
Property condition is to be kept in a good state of repair and must meet the basic requirements of the fitness standard.
For further information regarding this scheme please contact:
Private Sector Housing
Winchester City Council
Colebrook Street
Winchester
Hampshire
SO23 9LJ
Tel: 01962 848483
e-mail: housing@winchester.gov.uk
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