Student Housing Accreditation scheme first success
Winchester City Council has presented the first certificates from the Student Housing Accreditation Scheme to landlords Anna and Ian Veazey of Lithend Estates Ltd.
Students Charlotte Montague & Karen Maguire, who live in the newly accredited property, feel much safer in their home.
"We believe the accreditation scheme is a very good idea because you know there are safety precautions in place. It has doubled the security of our house and has made us feel much safer in the property," they said.
The aims of the scheme are to ensure students reside in safe, quality houses, and to promote good landlords. The Scheme concentrates on fire safety, but also considers legal obligations required by landlords, and possible requirements of proposed housing law for the future.
The City Council has worked closely with landlords and listened positively to their comments about the scheme. "It has been a pleasure working with the Accreditation team, who have at all times been flexible and professional. We honestly believe that the combined efforts of all involved can only lead to benefits and improvements for both students and landlords," commented Mr and Mrs Veazey.
To date, approximately 100 dwellings have been inspected and the Council is working in partnership with landlords to help them reach accreditation standards with the aid of grants.
It is hoped that following the student roadshow held at King Alfred’s College and the work carried out to date with landlords, students will gain further appreciation of the benefits of choosing accredited landlords and properties.
If you are a landlord who wishes to become part of Winchester Student Housing Accreditation Scheme, please contact Georgia Davies or Bruce Lomax on 01962 848323 / 01962 848381 for details. Alternatively, email environment@winchester.gov.uk