Local councils launch voluntary scheme that benchmarks letting agents and landlords

Councils in the west of England have relaunched a scheme that sets a benchmark for letting agents and landlords.

It aims to help people find good quality rented accommodation in Bristol and surrounding areas.

Rent with Confidence  is a voluntary scheme that aims to protect tenants, who will know whether their agent or landlord is approved and meets the standard.

The standard was worked out between agents, landlords and tenants’ groups, and includes ethical letting principles.

The scheme also includes a section on tenant responsibilities.

Seven organisations have been approved – with landlords far more strongly represented than agents – and their accredited agents and landlords will be able to use the scheme logo and marketing material.

The approved organisations are:
• Bristol Association of Letting and Managing Agents
• Bristol University Student Union Lettings
• South West Landlords Association
• National Landlord Association (accredited members only)
• Residential Landlords Association (accredited members only)
• Consider Rate
• National Landlords Code of Excellence

The scheme is run by Bristol City Council in conjunction with Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire councils, and has also been supported by Plymouth City Council.

Cllr Paul Smith, Bristol City Council’s cabinet member for homes and communities, said: “The scheme aims to encourage responsible landlords and agents to do more than the legal minimum and is achievable for most landlords and letting agencies. The standard also recognises that tenants should meet their responsibilities.”

www.westofenglandrentalstandard.co.uk

email rentwithconfidence@bristol.gov.uk

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