Whilst it’s evident that there are really bad properties out there and dodgy landlords looking to make a quick buck rather than a professional business, there are also lots of good, professional landlords with decent properties you can rent from.
Our house-hunting checklist is a useful start to ensure you have a good property, but that won’t always help to ensure you have a good landlord or letting agent.
One way to help with this is renting from an accredited landlord or letting agent.
Accredited landlords have agreed to abide by a set of standards (or code) relating to the management or physical condition of their property. This type of landlord offers you a lot more security than those who are not.
Most schemes are run by local authorities, usually by their housing or environmental health department. Contact your local council for advice about accreditation schemes that may be operating in your area. However some are run by universities, or other organisations, such as Unipol.
When going to a letting agent, ask them to show you their accreditation scheme membership card or certificate.
For more information check out some of the following websites: