Accreditation Scheme

Introduction

The aim of the Accreditation Scheme is to give recognition to good quality, well managed rental accommodation. We work with private landlords to provide decent homes to rent in the private sector.

Key facts

• Accreditation status lasts for five years
• Accreditation is not a legal requirement
• The scheme is based on self-certification by the landlord or agent
• A proportion of all properties are routinely inspected

Benefits to landlords

• Quick and simple application process
• Helpful handbook
• Peace of mind that your property meets all legal requirements and matches good market standards
• Tenants prefer accredited properties
• Additional incentives for landlords working with the Deposit Bond scheme
• Discounted Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licence fee
• Reduced fees for West of England landlord training sessions
• Accreditation certificate to display in the property

Applying for accreditation

To apply for the Bristol Accreditation Scheme download the application form and read the handbook and factsheets. 

Complete the form and return to our offices along with the relevant safety certificates.

The Landlord or Agent must provide the following certificates for the property to be accredited. 

• Satisfactory Electrical periodic inspection report (e.g. Niceic) dated within the last five years
• Satisfactory Gas Safe Safety certificate for all appliances dated within the last 12 months. 
• Satisfactory Fire Alarm Certificate (HMOs only) date within the last six months. 
• Energy performance certificate (ECP) unless property is exempt 
  • i.e. tenancy commence before 1 October 2008 or
  • property entirely let as bed sits or
  • shared house with individual tenancies

Information for tenants

Reassurance:

• The gas, electrics and fire alarms have been checked
• The property meets legal requirements and the accreditation standards
• Your landlord or agent has signed up to the Code of Good Management Practice

How do I know if I’m living in an accredited property?

• Your landlord will be given a certificate to put up in the property that will let you know how long the accreditation status lasts.
• We will write to you periodically letting you know you’re living in an accredited property and where to go for more information
• You can contact us and ask us to check for you

Accreditation partners

The scheme is a partnership initiative of:

• Bristol City Council, South Gloucestershire Council, North Somerset Council, Bath & North East Somerset Council
• Avon Fire and Rescue
• University of Bristol, University of the West of England, City of Bristol College

Complaints

If a complaint is lodged about you or the property this will be fully investigated. You have a right to an appeal and a review of any decision made. Please see the complaints procedure (pdf, 63 KB) (opens new window) for further information.

Useful information

Local Housing Allowance (LHA)

Local Housing Allowance (LHA) is a new way of calculating Housing Benefits for tenants renting accommodation from private landlords. 

Tenant Deposit Protection Schemes

This national scheme is mandatory for all new tenancy agreements. 

• Landlords are required to join a statutory tenancy deposit scheme, if they take deposit.

• This means that deposits are protected.

The three schemes are:

Tenancy Deposit Solutions Telephone: 0871 703 0552

The Deposit Protection Service (Custodial)  Telephone: 0870 707 1707

The Dispute Service  Telephone: 0845 226 7837

Private Renting Team

The Private Renting Team helps homeless single people and childless couples secure private rented accommodation, by providing landlords with Deposit Bond on the tenant’s behalf. 

Housing and Council Tax Benefit

The Benefit Service is responsible for calculating, paying and giving advice on Housing and Council Tax Benefits for customers who live in Bristol. Anyone that has a Rent or Council Tax liability can make a claim. 

Customer Service

If you prefer to speak to someone in person, you can visit one of seven Customer service points.

You can also speak to a Customer Adviser by telephone on 0117 922 2300. Lines are open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday. 

Enforcement

If, on inspection, a hazard is found in a property that presents a severe threat to health or safety, the council must take appropriate legal action. The action taken will be in accordance with our enforcement policy. 

Feedback

We are always looking to improve how the scheme operates and to look at other ways to encourage more landlords to take part. If you have any feedback or ideas please contact us.