Private sector landlords, who provide hundreds of Bracknell Forest families with a home, could nab some creature comforts if a new accreditation scheme goes ahead.
Bracknell Forest Council is looking at whether an accreditation scheme should be developed for landlords who privately let out their property and is seeking landlords’ views on the possible scheme.
Accreditation schemes are up and running across the country and provide benefits to both landlords and tenants.
For Bracknell landlords, some of the advantages could include the potential access to grants and loans at preferential rates, having direct contact with council officers who can advise on benefits and housing law issues, training opportunities and consultation on any proposed legal changes.
The bonus for tenants would be having the ability to search for accredited landlords, recognised by the council for good management and keeping their properties up to a good standard.
David Steeds, head of Bracknell environmental health and safety, said: "Many landlords of private sector homes are joining accreditation schemes across the country, working closer with local authorities to raise the standard of management of their properties.
"We’re looking at whether a similar scheme could work in Bracknell Forest, and so we really need landlords to tell us how they’d like an accreditation scheme to operate in the borough."
A survey for landlords, where they can put forward their views, is available at www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/env-private-sector-housing or by calling Graham Smith, housing standards and grants officer, on 01344 352504.
Cllr Dale Birch, executive member for Bracknell housing, said: "Having a private landlord accreditation scheme in place would give good landlords the chance to show they take care of their properties. This could be a real plus for both landlords letting out properties and for tenants looking for a good home to live in.
"It would also bring some real extra benefits to landlords in the form of free advice on housing law, training and even access to grants and loans."
Bracknell Forest Council