Chichester and Arun

Landlord Accreditation Scheme Standards

Printed and Designed by Chichester District CouncilPlease recycle after use. Updated November 2011

Available in large print format

If you have any queries about applying for accreditation please telephone Chichester District Council, Home and Community, Housing Investment Team

on 01243 534608 or email accreditation@chichester.gov.uk

Chichester District Council, Home and Community, East Pallant House, 1 East Pallant, Chichester PO19 1TY

Arun District Council, Arun Civic Centre, Maltravers Road, Littlehampton BN17 5LF

This booklet sets out the standard whichAccredited properties are normallyexpected to reach. However, discretion willbe applied when there are practicaldifficulties in achieving the standards.

LegislationSince the introduction of the Housing Act2004, local authorities must identifyhazards affecting health and safety of theoccupants in dwellings. Landlords have amandatory duty to ensure their propertiesare free from hazards including damp andmould, excess cold and fire. Furtherinformation can be found in the HousingHealth and Safety Rating System forlandlords and property relatedprofessionals, which can be found at

www.communities.gov.uk. In additionlandlords must comply with TheManagement of Houses in MultipleOccupation (England) Regulations 2006and where necessary the Licensing ofHouses in Multiple Occupation.

MaintenanceThe Landlord must ensure that the property (including boundary walls, fencesand gardens), is safe and maintained ingood repair and that utility services and associated appliances (if provided by thelandlord) are maintained in good working order.

When maintenance works are required,landlords should inform tenants inadvance.

Timescales for repairsThe Landlord must ensure that repairs are completed within a reasonable timescale,which depends on the severity of the problem. For example:

24 hours - urgent issues affecting the health or safety of the occupants (e.g. major electrical fault, blocked WC)

3 working days - essential, affecting material comfort (e.g. hot water or heating failure between October and February)

7 working days - non-urgent, structural or services (e.g. roof leak, fridge breakdown)

Where landlords are unable to meet the above timescales, for example if contractorsare unavailable, they must keep the tenants informed of progress.

scheme standards

2 11

N.B. Landlords who are aggrieved by theCouncil’s decision on how to resolve anissue can appeal to the AccreditationAppeals Panel, which includes aLandlord Representative.

Such appeals must be made in writing to the Environmental Health / HousingManager, at the address below within 21 days of the decision being made.

The Panel will aim to meet within 14 daysof the appeal being submitted. The Panelmay ask for witnesses to either be presentor provide a written statement.

The determination of the Panel, to uphold,amend or reverse the previous decision, is final and will be notified to relevant parties within 7 days of the hearing.

If you have any further questions about the scheme or would like to receive an application pack please contact:

Chichester District Council, Home and Community, Housing Investment Teamon 01243 534608 or email accreditation@chichester.gov.uk

Chichester District Council, Home and Community, East Pallant House, 1 East Pallant, Chichester PO19 1TY

Arun District Council, Arun Civic Centre, Maltravers Road, Littlehampton BN17 5LF

This booklet is available in large print format upon request

Electrical SafetyThe Landlord must ensure that theproperty always has a valid electricalperiodic inspection report by a suitablyqualified person, e.g. NICEIC or ECAregistered contractor stating that theinstallation is in a satisfactory condition.

All electrical appliances provided by thelandlord must be tested at least every 5years and a Portable Appliance Testing(PAT) report must be obtained.

Gas Safety The Landlord must ensure that the property has a current gas safetyCertificate (renewable annually).

Portable gas/paraffin heaters are unacceptable and must not be provided.

Provide a carbon monoxide detector (CO)marked with British Standard EN 50291and a British or European approval mark,such as a Kitemark. A new CO alarm isrequired every 5 years unless the manufacturers instructions clearly state ithas a longer life. An alarm should be fittedin each room with a gas appliance. Thedetector should be installed in accordancewith the manufacturer’s instructions.

SecurityThe property must have security measuresto protect against unauthorised access.

CleaningThe landlord must ensure that the property is thoroughly cleaned throughout on a change of occupancy.

10 3

Minimum number of socket outlets:

Living Room - 3 doubles

Dining room - 3 doubles

Kitchen - 3 doubles, see page 5

Hall - 1 single

Landing - 1 single

Bedrooms - 2 doubles in each

Any problems or complaints which relateto the Accreditation Scheme are initiallyinvestigated by the Accreditation Officerwho will determine, in conjunction withhis/her manager if necessary, the mostappropriate response.

The following are examples of problemswhich could occur during the accreditationprocess and how they are resolved:-

Inadequate or incorrect information submitted in the accreditation application.

If the Accreditation Officer is unable toobtain full and accurate information theapplication is refused, in writing.

Disagreement about the extent of worksrequired to achieve accreditation and/orthe deadline by which those works mustbe completed.

The Accreditation Officer confirms theworks/deadline with his/her manager. If the landlord is unwilling to meet therequirements the application is refused, in writing.

Post accreditation breach of either thescheme standards or the code of goodmanagement.

The Accreditation Officer investigates thebreach and confirms with his/her managerwhether breach is considered to be low,medium or high severity, with the following consequences:-

• low severity breaches should beresolved by the Accreditation Officerand landlord.

• medium severity breaches (e.g. affecting the material comfort of tenants) are likely to lead to accreditation being suspended untilremedial works have been carried out.

• high level breaches (e.g. affecting tenants’ health or safety) are likely tolead to an accreditation being revoked,in addition to appropriate statutoryaction. Reinstatement after accreditation has been revoked would depend upon the landlorddemonstrating a prolonged period ofgood practice.

Complaints andAppeals Procedure

scheme standards

4 9

FacilitiesBathrooms and WC’s

For up to every 5 occupants the landlord must provide :

• One bath or temperature controlledshower (of minimum dimensions750mm x 750mm).

• One WC with wash hand basin providedwith constant hot and cold watersupplies as appropriate and connectedto a suitable foul drainage system.

For 6 occupants, one bath/shower is sufficient provided the WC/basin is separate.

Bathrooms must be provided with:

• mechanical extract ventilation at a rateof 15 litres /second.

• splash backs to baths/basins;adequate wall tiling or other suitablewaterproof finish to showers.

• an adequate drying area.

• easily cleanable floor and wall surfaces.NB – floor covering should be slipresistant and carpets are notconsidered suitable.

• separate WC’s must be provided with awash hand basin located in the sameroom.

• If there is no source of naturalventilation i.e. a window, the WC shouldbe provided with mechanical extractventilation at a rate of 6 litres/second.

KitchensKitchens must be provided at a ratio of 1 per 5 occupants. This may be reduced to 1 per 6 if the kitchen is of an adequatesize. This must be agreed by theAccreditation Officer.

The Landlord must ensure that all kitchens have a safe layout suitable for the number of tenants. The worksurfaces, walls and floor must have readily cleanable finishes and be in good repair. Kitchen walls adjacent to cookers, sinks and food preparationareas shall be provided with impervioussplash backs. There must also beadequate storage facilities, to be kept in good repair.

The kitchen must be provided with the following:

1. Sink with impervious draining board.

2. An adequate supply of cold and constant hot water to each sink.

3. Facilities for the cooking of food, whichshould include a 4 ring hob and oven.

What does it cost?

There is NO COST to join the scheme.

Who is a “fit and proper” person?

A person who has not committed anyoffences, or been subject to anyproceedings brought by a local authorityor Regulatory Body with regard to theHousing Act, Landlord & Tenant Act or anyApproved Code of Practice in relation tothe management of HMOs. Furthermoreconvictions relating to fraud, dishonesty,discrimination, drugs or Schedule 3 of theSexual Offences Act 2003 may disqualifyan applicant.

Who can become accredited?

Only property owners can apply to accredit their properties.

What does the Code of Managementrequire?

The Code requires landlords to conductthemselves in a professional manner at alltimes and respond promptly to all issuesraised by tenants.

Do all properties have to be accredited?

Landlords who apply for accreditationmust provide a list of all their propertieswhich are available for letting in both

Chichester & Arun Districts and agree that all his/her properties will becomeaccredited within an agreed timescale.Landlords are encouraged to bring all their properties up to accreditation standard as soon as possible.

How do I apply?

Please contact the Chichester DistrictCouncil, Home and CommunityDepartment, Housing Investment Team on01243 534608 for an application pack.

How long does accreditation last?

Accreditation will normally last for 5 years.However accreditation may be revoked ifthe Code of Management or the Standardsare breached.

Who operates the scheme?

The Landlord Accreditation Scheme is runby Chichester & Arun District Councils inpartnership with private landlords,University of Chichester, ChichesterCollege and West Sussex Fire and Rescue.

Do I have to join a Landlord Association?

No, but assistance can be provided bythe National Landlords Association onwww.landlords.org.uk or the ResidentialLandlords Association www.rla.org.uk

scheme standards

4. Electrical sockets; there should be atleast 3 double sockets above worktopsin addition to sockets dedicated tofixed appliances such as refrigeratorand washing machine.

5. Sufficient worktop area for the preparation of food (ideally based on0.5 m of 600 mm deep worktop perperson).

6. Adequate cupboards for the storage offood and kitchen utensils.

7. Refrigerators with an adequate freezercompartment; a refrigerator of 'standard' size (i.e. having 0.15 m3

capacity) is considered satisfactory forup to 5 occupants.

8. Adequate refuse bins. It is advisable tohave separate kitchen waste bins forrefuse and recyclable material.

9. Mechanical Extractor fan with anextract rate of 30 litres/sec if it is adjacent to a cooker/hob, or 60 litres/sec if located elsewhere.

10. Adequate fire precautions, normallyincluding a fire door, heat detector and fire blanket.

HeatingThe landlord must ensure that the propertyhas one of the following:

• An adequate, controllable oil or gasfired central heating system with thermostatic radiator valves, a programmer/timer, and a room thermostat.

• Electric storage heaters provided withcharge and temperature control whichallows the appliance to detect the internal temperature and adjust thecharging and heat release accordingly.

• Electric panel heaters with time andtemperature control are permissibleprovided they achieve the required temperature and are fitted to a dedicated fusespur.

• Whether there are any other servicecharges and the method of arriving atsuch charges

• Council tax implications

• Who is responsible for garden maintenance

• Who pays the utility bills or whetherincluded in the rent payment

• The landlord's obligations

• The tenant's obligations

• Any mutual agreements

• An Energy Performance Certificate

The landlord must act in accordance withthe requirements of the Housing Act 2004with regard to rent deposits. If the landlord wishes to take a monetary deposit he/she must safeguard that deposit in a statutory tenancy deposit protection scheme.

The Landlord must supply an Inventory at the beginning of each tenancy. Theinventory should list all the furniture andequipment supplied by the landlord and a detailed description of the condition.Reference should also be made to the condition of the floor covering and décor. The inventory must be agreed by the tenants.

Management• The landlord may gain access to the

property (for inspection, repairs or other reasons) only by arrangement withthe tenant and having given 24 hours' notice of visit (except in emergencies)

• The landlord must provide all tenantswith the name, address and effectivecontact details of the person who willdeal with repairs and emergencies.

• The landlord may wish to display the accreditation certificate at the property.

Frequently asked questions

What is the accreditation scheme?Accreditation is the recognition that alandlord has voluntarily complied withstandards set by Chichester & Arun DistrictCouncils (CDC and ADC) regarding thecondition and management of their properties. To join the scheme a landlordmust be a ‘fit & proper person’, abide bythe Code of Good Management and agreeto accredit all his/her properties inChichester and Arun Districts.

Although the scheme is not compulsorythere are many advantages to joining, asset out below.

8 5

scheme standards

• A whole house heating system must becapable of maintaining 21°c in livingrooms, bedrooms and bathrooms, and18°c in all other areas.

Room SizesNB: minimum room sizes are subject toeach room being of a shape offering adequate useable living space.

• 13m2 for a one roomed unit with kitchenfacilities

• 10m2 where a kitchen is shared without a shared lounge

• 12m2 for double bedrooms for couples

• 6.5m2 where a lounge and kitchen ordining room or adequately sized kitchendiner is shared

• The floor to ceiling height should normally be no less than 2.1m

Decor & CarpetingThe Landlord must ensure that the interior of the property is maintained ingood decorative order.

The Landlord must ensure carpeting is satisfactory and replaced as necessary.

Waste disposalThe Landlord must ensure that the tenantsare aware of the waste disposal

arrangements in the area including collection days and items to be recycled.Details are available on the websites, atwww.chi.gov.ukwww.arun.gov.uk

GardenThe Landlord must ensure that gardens are kept in a well maintained condition bymeans of a written agreement signed byboth the landlord and the tenants. Thisshould be incorporated into the tenancyagreement.

Fire SafetyFurnitureThe Landlord must ensure all furniture provided is labelled to show compliancewith current Furniture and Furnishings(Fire) (Safety) Regulations.

Fire PrecautionsAny fire precautions needed will be notified to landlords, if necessary followingconsultation with the Fire and RescueService.

Any fire equipment provided must be kept in good working order and tested and serviced annually.

6 7

The escape route must be kept free of all obstructions and flammables.

Energy EfficiencyInsulationThe property, where practicable musthave:

• 250mm of loft insulation

• Cavity wall insulation

• A factory foam lagged cylinder or a well-fitted hot water tank jacket which isat least 80mm thick

WindowsWindows must be in satisfactory repair,weathertight and able to be opened and closed freely. Ideally, for energy efficiency reasons, windows should be double glazed.

Additional CriteriaShould any white goods (fridge, freezer,washing machine, dishwasher) requirereplacement, an appliance with an 'A or B'energy rating must be provided.

Code of GoodManagement

Tenancy AgreementsThe landlord must supply an AssuredShorthold Tenancy agreement (either"joint" or "individual")

The agreement must include:

• Name, address and contact numbers of landlord and managing agent (if applicable)

• Details of person on whom Noticesshould be served (England and Wales)

• Tenant's name(s)

• Address of property to be rented

• The term of the tenancy and start date

The agreement must be written in plainclear language with no legal jargon or unfair terms and state clearly:-

• The rent payable, due date and payment method

• The deposit payable and details ofwhen it will be refunded

scheme standards

• A whole house heating system must becapable of maintaining 21°c in livingrooms, bedrooms and bathrooms, and18°c in all other areas.

Room SizesNB: minimum room sizes are subject toeach room being of a shape offering adequate useable living space.

• 13m2 for a one roomed unit with kitchenfacilities

• 10m2 where a kitchen is shared without a shared lounge

• 12m2 for double bedrooms for couples

• 6.5m2 where a lounge and kitchen ordining room or adequately sized kitchendiner is shared

• The floor to ceiling height should normally be no less than 2.1m

Decor & CarpetingThe Landlord must ensure that the interior of the property is maintained ingood decorative order.

The Landlord must ensure carpeting is satisfactory and replaced as necessary.

Waste disposalThe Landlord must ensure that the tenantsare aware of the waste disposal

arrangements in the area including collection days and items to be recycled.Details are available on the websites, atwww.chi.gov.ukwww.arun.gov.uk

GardenThe Landlord must ensure that gardens are kept in a well maintained condition bymeans of a written agreement signed byboth the landlord and the tenants. Thisshould be incorporated into the tenancyagreement.

Fire SafetyFurnitureThe Landlord must ensure all furniture provided is labelled to show compliancewith current Furniture and Furnishings(Fire) (Safety) Regulations.

Fire PrecautionsAny fire precautions needed will be notified to landlords, if necessary followingconsultation with the Fire and RescueService.

Any fire equipment provided must be kept in good working order and tested and serviced annually.

6 7

The escape route must be kept free of all obstructions and flammables.

Energy EfficiencyInsulationThe property, where practicable musthave:

• 250mm of loft insulation

• Cavity wall insulation

• A factory foam lagged cylinder or a well-fitted hot water tank jacket which isat least 80mm thick

WindowsWindows must be in satisfactory repair,weathertight and able to be opened and closed freely. Ideally, for energy efficiency reasons, windows should be double glazed.

Additional CriteriaShould any white goods (fridge, freezer,washing machine, dishwasher) requirereplacement, an appliance with an 'A or B'energy rating must be provided.

Code of GoodManagement

Tenancy AgreementsThe landlord must supply an AssuredShorthold Tenancy agreement (either"joint" or "individual")

The agreement must include:

• Name, address and contact numbers of landlord and managing agent (if applicable)

• Details of person on whom Noticesshould be served (England and Wales)

• Tenant's name(s)

• Address of property to be rented

• The term of the tenancy and start date

The agreement must be written in plainclear language with no legal jargon or unfair terms and state clearly:-

• The rent payable, due date and payment method

• The deposit payable and details ofwhen it will be refunded

scheme standards

4. Electrical sockets; there should be atleast 3 double sockets above worktopsin addition to sockets dedicated tofixed appliances such as refrigeratorand washing machine.

5. Sufficient worktop area for the preparation of food (ideally based on0.5 m of 600 mm deep worktop perperson).

6. Adequate cupboards for the storage offood and kitchen utensils.

7. Refrigerators with an adequate freezercompartment; a refrigerator of 'standard' size (i.e. having 0.15 m3

capacity) is considered satisfactory forup to 5 occupants.

8. Adequate refuse bins. It is advisable tohave separate kitchen waste bins forrefuse and recyclable material.

9. Mechanical Extractor fan with anextract rate of 30 litres/sec if it is adjacent to a cooker/hob, or 60 litres/sec if located elsewhere.

10. Adequate fire precautions, normallyincluding a fire door, heat detector and fire blanket.

HeatingThe landlord must ensure that the propertyhas one of the following:

• An adequate, controllable oil or gasfired central heating system with thermostatic radiator valves, a programmer/timer, and a room thermostat.

• Electric storage heaters provided withcharge and temperature control whichallows the appliance to detect the internal temperature and adjust thecharging and heat release accordingly.

• Electric panel heaters with time andtemperature control are permissibleprovided they achieve the required temperature and are fitted to a dedicated fusespur.

• Whether there are any other servicecharges and the method of arriving atsuch charges

• Council tax implications

• Who is responsible for garden maintenance

• Who pays the utility bills or whetherincluded in the rent payment

• The landlord's obligations

• The tenant's obligations

• Any mutual agreements

• An Energy Performance Certificate

The landlord must act in accordance withthe requirements of the Housing Act 2004with regard to rent deposits. If the landlord wishes to take a monetary deposit he/she must safeguard that deposit in a statutory tenancy deposit protection scheme.

The Landlord must supply an Inventory at the beginning of each tenancy. Theinventory should list all the furniture andequipment supplied by the landlord and a detailed description of the condition.Reference should also be made to the condition of the floor covering and décor. The inventory must be agreed by the tenants.

Management• The landlord may gain access to the

property (for inspection, repairs or other reasons) only by arrangement withthe tenant and having given 24 hours' notice of visit (except in emergencies)

• The landlord must provide all tenantswith the name, address and effectivecontact details of the person who willdeal with repairs and emergencies.

• The landlord may wish to display the accreditation certificate at the property.

Frequently asked questions

What is the accreditation scheme?Accreditation is the recognition that alandlord has voluntarily complied withstandards set by Chichester & Arun DistrictCouncils (CDC and ADC) regarding thecondition and management of their properties. To join the scheme a landlordmust be a ‘fit & proper person’, abide bythe Code of Good Management and agreeto accredit all his/her properties inChichester and Arun Districts.

Although the scheme is not compulsorythere are many advantages to joining, asset out below.

8 5

scheme standards

4 9

FacilitiesBathrooms and WC’s

For up to every 5 occupants the landlord must provide :

• One bath or temperature controlledshower (of minimum dimensions750mm x 750mm).

• One WC with wash hand basin providedwith constant hot and cold watersupplies as appropriate and connectedto a suitable foul drainage system.

For 6 occupants, one bath/shower is sufficient provided the WC/basin is separate.

Bathrooms must be provided with:

• mechanical extract ventilation at a rateof 15 litres /second.

• splash backs to baths/basins;adequate wall tiling or other suitablewaterproof finish to showers.

• an adequate drying area.

• easily cleanable floor and wall surfaces.NB – floor covering should be slipresistant and carpets are notconsidered suitable.

• separate WC’s must be provided with awash hand basin located in the sameroom.

• If there is no source of naturalventilation i.e. a window, the WC shouldbe provided with mechanical extractventilation at a rate of 6 litres/second.

KitchensKitchens must be provided at a ratio of 1 per 5 occupants. This may be reduced to 1 per 6 if the kitchen is of an adequatesize. This must be agreed by theAccreditation Officer.

The Landlord must ensure that all kitchens have a safe layout suitable for the number of tenants. The worksurfaces, walls and floor must have readily cleanable finishes and be in good repair. Kitchen walls adjacent to cookers, sinks and food preparationareas shall be provided with impervioussplash backs. There must also beadequate storage facilities, to be kept in good repair.

The kitchen must be provided with the following:

1. Sink with impervious draining board.

2. An adequate supply of cold and constant hot water to each sink.

3. Facilities for the cooking of food, whichshould include a 4 ring hob and oven.

What does it cost?

There is NO COST to join the scheme.

Who is a “fit and proper” person?

A person who has not committed anyoffences, or been subject to anyproceedings brought by a local authorityor Regulatory Body with regard to theHousing Act, Landlord & Tenant Act or anyApproved Code of Practice in relation tothe management of HMOs. Furthermoreconvictions relating to fraud, dishonesty,discrimination, drugs or Schedule 3 of theSexual Offences Act 2003 may disqualifyan applicant.

Who can become accredited?

Only property owners can apply to accredit their properties.

What does the Code of Managementrequire?

The Code requires landlords to conductthemselves in a professional manner at alltimes and respond promptly to all issuesraised by tenants.

Do all properties have to be accredited?

Landlords who apply for accreditationmust provide a list of all their propertieswhich are available for letting in both

Chichester & Arun Districts and agree that all his/her properties will becomeaccredited within an agreed timescale.Landlords are encouraged to bring all their properties up to accreditation standard as soon as possible.

How do I apply?

Please contact the Chichester DistrictCouncil, Home and CommunityDepartment, Housing Investment Team on01243 534608 for an application pack.

How long does accreditation last?

Accreditation will normally last for 5 years.However accreditation may be revoked ifthe Code of Management or the Standardsare breached.

Who operates the scheme?

The Landlord Accreditation Scheme is runby Chichester & Arun District Councils inpartnership with private landlords,University of Chichester, ChichesterCollege and West Sussex Fire and Rescue.

Do I have to join a Landlord Association?

No, but assistance can be provided bythe National Landlords Association onwww.landlords.org.uk or the ResidentialLandlords Association www.rla.org.uk

scheme standards

Electrical SafetyThe Landlord must ensure that theproperty always has a valid electricalperiodic inspection report by a suitablyqualified person, e.g. NICEIC or ECAregistered contractor stating that theinstallation is in a satisfactory condition.

All electrical appliances provided by thelandlord must be tested at least every 5years and a Portable Appliance Testing(PAT) report must be obtained.

Gas Safety The Landlord must ensure that the property has a current gas safetyCertificate (renewable annually).

Portable gas/paraffin heaters are unacceptable and must not be provided.

Provide a carbon monoxide detector (CO)marked with British Standard EN 50291and a British or European approval mark,such as a Kitemark. A new CO alarm isrequired every 5 years unless the manufacturers instructions clearly state ithas a longer life. An alarm should be fittedin each room with a gas appliance. Thedetector should be installed in accordancewith the manufacturer’s instructions.

SecurityThe property must have security measuresto protect against unauthorised access.

CleaningThe landlord must ensure that the property is thoroughly cleaned throughout on a change of occupancy.

10 3

Minimum number of socket outlets:

Living Room - 3 doubles

Dining room - 3 doubles

Kitchen - 3 doubles, see page 5

Hall - 1 single

Landing - 1 single

Bedrooms - 2 doubles in each

Any problems or complaints which relateto the Accreditation Scheme are initiallyinvestigated by the Accreditation Officerwho will determine, in conjunction withhis/her manager if necessary, the mostappropriate response.

The following are examples of problemswhich could occur during the accreditationprocess and how they are resolved:-

Inadequate or incorrect information submitted in the accreditation application.

If the Accreditation Officer is unable toobtain full and accurate information theapplication is refused, in writing.

Disagreement about the extent of worksrequired to achieve accreditation and/orthe deadline by which those works mustbe completed.

The Accreditation Officer confirms theworks/deadline with his/her manager. If the landlord is unwilling to meet therequirements the application is refused, in writing.

Post accreditation breach of either thescheme standards or the code of goodmanagement.

The Accreditation Officer investigates thebreach and confirms with his/her managerwhether breach is considered to be low,medium or high severity, with the following consequences:-

• low severity breaches should beresolved by the Accreditation Officerand landlord.

• medium severity breaches (e.g. affecting the material comfort of tenants) are likely to lead to accreditation being suspended untilremedial works have been carried out.

• high level breaches (e.g. affecting tenants’ health or safety) are likely tolead to an accreditation being revoked,in addition to appropriate statutoryaction. Reinstatement after accreditation has been revoked would depend upon the landlorddemonstrating a prolonged period ofgood practice.

Complaints andAppeals Procedure

scheme standards

This booklet sets out the standard whichAccredited properties are normallyexpected to reach. However, discretion willbe applied when there are practicaldifficulties in achieving the standards.

LegislationSince the introduction of the Housing Act2004, local authorities must identifyhazards affecting health and safety of theoccupants in dwellings. Landlords have amandatory duty to ensure their propertiesare free from hazards including damp andmould, excess cold and fire. Furtherinformation can be found in the HousingHealth and Safety Rating System forlandlords and property relatedprofessionals, which can be found at

www.communities.gov.uk. In additionlandlords must comply with TheManagement of Houses in MultipleOccupation (England) Regulations 2006and where necessary the Licensing ofHouses in Multiple Occupation.

MaintenanceThe Landlord must ensure that the property (including boundary walls, fencesand gardens), is safe and maintained ingood repair and that utility services and associated appliances (if provided by thelandlord) are maintained in good working order.

When maintenance works are required,landlords should inform tenants inadvance.

Timescales for repairsThe Landlord must ensure that repairs are completed within a reasonable timescale,which depends on the severity of the problem. For example:

24 hours - urgent issues affecting the health or safety of the occupants (e.g. major electrical fault, blocked WC)

3 working days - essential, affecting material comfort (e.g. hot water or heating failure between October and February)

7 working days - non-urgent, structural or services (e.g. roof leak, fridge breakdown)

Where landlords are unable to meet the above timescales, for example if contractorsare unavailable, they must keep the tenants informed of progress.

scheme standards

2 11

N.B. Landlords who are aggrieved by theCouncil’s decision on how to resolve anissue can appeal to the AccreditationAppeals Panel, which includes aLandlord Representative.

Such appeals must be made in writing to the Environmental Health / HousingManager, at the address below within 21 days of the decision being made.

The Panel will aim to meet within 14 daysof the appeal being submitted. The Panelmay ask for witnesses to either be presentor provide a written statement.

The determination of the Panel, to uphold,amend or reverse the previous decision, is final and will be notified to relevant parties within 7 days of the hearing.

If you have any further questions about the scheme or would like to receive an application pack please contact:

Chichester District Council, Home and Community, Housing Investment Teamon 01243 534608 or email accreditation@chichester.gov.uk

Chichester District Council, Home and Community, East Pallant House, 1 East Pallant, Chichester PO19 1TY

Arun District Council, Arun Civic Centre, Maltravers Road, Littlehampton BN17 5LF

This booklet is available in large print format upon request

Chichester and Arun Landlord Accreditation SchemeApplication Form

Data Protection

The information provided will be held on a computer database registered in accordance withthe Data Protection Act 1998.

In order to offer landlords the maximum benefits from joining the scheme, however, it maybe necessary for the District Council to provide some details to third parties, for example inorder that addresses of properties can be advertised.

Please tick the box if you wish to allow your details to be released

Declaration

• I do not own any rented houses inChichester or Arun Districts other than thoselisted.

I have no unspent convictions in respect of:

• Any offence involving fraud or otherdishonesty, or violence or drugs or anyoffence listed in Schedule 3 to the SexualOffences Act 2003.

• Any unlawful discrimination on grounds ofsex, colour, race, ethnic or national originsor disability in, or in connection with, thecarrying on of any business; and

• Contravention of any provision of the lawrelating to housing or of landlord and tenantlaw; (including any civil proceedings thatyou have lost).

• I have not acted in contravention of anyApproved Code of Practice (Acop) in relationto the management of HMOs.

• No property in my control has been thesubject of any proceedings by a localauthority (such as breaches of theEnvironmental Protection Act 1990, planningcontrol, compulsory purchase proceedingsor fire safety requirements).

Management Code

• I confirm that I have read and understoodthe Code of Good Management and I agreeto abide by the terms of the Code.

Scheme Standards

• I confirm that I have read and understoodthe Scheme Standards and I agree to bringall the premises listed up to thosestandards in a timescale agreed with theCouncil.

Furniture Safety Declaration

• I declare that to the best of my knowledge, information and belief, all the furniture and furnishings which have been provided at the premises listed comply with the currentFurniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety)Regulations and all other statutory safetyrequirements.

• I will ensure that any furniture which isprovided to these premises will comply withthese Regulations and requirements.

• I will take all reasonable steps to ensure thatthe tenants are aware that any furniture andfurnishings provided by themselves mustalso comply with the above mentionedRegulations.

• I declare that the information contained inthis application is correct to the best of myknowledge.

If you have any queries about applying for accreditation please telephone 01243 534608 or email accreditation@chichester.gov.uk

Signed: Date:

Print Name:

Details of the Manager/Agent/Person responsible for management

Full Name (Mr/Mrs/Ms):

Address:

Post Code:

Home Tel No: Work Tel No:

Mobile Tel No: Fax No:

Email Address:

Please detach from booklet and complete the form using BLOCK CAPITALS. All applications, whether in Chichester or Arun, should be sent to: Home and Community, Housing Investment Team, Chichester District Council, East Pallant House, 1 East Pallant, Chichester, West Sussex PO19 1TY

Landlord Accreditation Application Form

First Application Renewal

Applicant Details (the applicant must be the owner)

Full Name (Mr/Mrs/Ms):

Address:

Post Code:

Home Tel No: Work Tel No:

Mobile Tel No: Fax No:

Email Address:

Premises to be accredited

All premises in Chichester and ArunDistricts must be listed below

House in multiple occupation or house in single occupation?

No of storeys (including basements, attics,mezzanine floors and commercialpremises)

If more than 6 properties please note details of other premises on an accompanying sheet.

Documents REQUIRED for acceptance on the scheme (Which should ideally be submitted with your application):-

• Gas Safety Certificate (if gas present)

• Periodic Electrical Inspection Report, no more than 5 years old, confirming safety of the electrical installation.

• Sketch plan of the layout of each floor in the property. The plan must identify the use andlocation of each room and the location of any fire precautions including heat/smoke detectors, control panel, emergency lighting and fire doors.

• A Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) report for all electrical appliances provided by the landlord, no more than 5 years old.

This form is also available to download on-line and submitted to accreditation@chichester.gov.uk

Once accredited, would you like your property included in the directory of accredited properties on the Chichester District Council or Arun District Council websites?

How will the property be advertised? (University/ letting agent)

If a letting agent is going to advertise the property, please provide their contact details:

Details of the Manager/Agent/Person responsible for management

Full Name (Mr/Mrs/Ms):

Address:

Post Code:

Home Tel No: Work Tel No:

Mobile Tel No: Fax No:

Email Address:

Please detach from booklet and complete the form using BLOCK CAPITALS. All applications, whether in Chichester or Arun, should be sent to: Home and Community, Housing Investment Team, Chichester District Council, East Pallant House, 1 East Pallant, Chichester, West Sussex PO19 1TY

Landlord Accreditation Application Form

First Application Renewal

Applicant Details (the applicant must be the owner)

Full Name (Mr/Mrs/Ms):

Address:

Post Code:

Home Tel No: Work Tel No:

Mobile Tel No: Fax No:

Email Address:

Premises to be accredited

All premises in Chichester and ArunDistricts must be listed below

House in multiple occupation or house in single occupation?

No of storeys (including basements, attics,mezzanine floors and commercialpremises)

If more than 6 properties please note details of other premises on an accompanying sheet.

Documents REQUIRED for acceptance on the scheme (Which should ideally be submitted with your application):-

• Gas Safety Certificate (if gas present)

• Periodic Electrical Inspection Report, no more than 5 years old, confirming safety of the electrical installation.

• Sketch plan of the layout of each floor in the property. The plan must identify the use andlocation of each room and the location of any fire precautions including heat/smoke detectors, control panel, emergency lighting and fire doors.

• A Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) report for all electrical appliances provided by the landlord, no more than 5 years old.

This form is also available to download on-line and submitted to accreditation@chichester.gov.uk

Once accredited, would you like your property included in the directory of accredited properties on the Chichester District Council or Arun District Council websites?

How will the property be advertised? (University/ letting agent)

If a letting agent is going to advertise the property, please provide their contact details:

Chichester and Arun Landlord Accreditation SchemeApplication Form

Data Protection

The information provided will be held on a computer database registered in accordance withthe Data Protection Act 1998.

In order to offer landlords the maximum benefits from joining the scheme, however, it maybe necessary for the District Council to provide some details to third parties, for example inorder that addresses of properties can be advertised.

Please tick the box if you wish to allow your details to be released

Declaration

• I do not own any rented houses inChichester or Arun Districts other than thoselisted.

I have no unspent convictions in respect of:

• Any offence involving fraud or otherdishonesty, or violence or drugs or anyoffence listed in Schedule 3 to the SexualOffences Act 2003.

• Any unlawful discrimination on grounds ofsex, colour, race, ethnic or national originsor disability in, or in connection with, thecarrying on of any business; and

• Contravention of any provision of the lawrelating to housing or of landlord and tenantlaw; (including any civil proceedings thatyou have lost).

• I have not acted in contravention of anyApproved Code of Practice (Acop) in relationto the management of HMOs.

• No property in my control has been thesubject of any proceedings by a localauthority (such as breaches of theEnvironmental Protection Act 1990, planningcontrol, compulsory purchase proceedingsor fire safety requirements).

Management Code

• I confirm that I have read and understoodthe Code of Good Management and I agreeto abide by the terms of the Code.

Scheme Standards

• I confirm that I have read and understoodthe Scheme Standards and I agree to bringall the premises listed up to thosestandards in a timescale agreed with theCouncil.

Furniture Safety Declaration

• I declare that to the best of my knowledge, information and belief, all the furniture and furnishings which have been provided at the premises listed comply with the currentFurniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety)Regulations and all other statutory safetyrequirements.

• I will ensure that any furniture which isprovided to these premises will comply withthese Regulations and requirements.

• I will take all reasonable steps to ensure thatthe tenants are aware that any furniture andfurnishings provided by themselves mustalso comply with the above mentionedRegulations.

• I declare that the information contained inthis application is correct to the best of myknowledge.

If you have any queries about applying for accreditation please telephone 01243 534608 or email accreditation@chichester.gov.uk

Signed: Date:

Print Name:

Chichester and Arun

Landlord Accreditation Scheme Standards

Printed and Designed by Chichester District CouncilPlease recycle after use. Updated November 2011

Available in large print format

If you have any queries about applying for accreditation please telephone Chichester District Council, Home and Community, Housing Investment Team

on 01243 534608 or email accreditation@chichester.gov.uk

Chichester District Council, Home and Community, East Pallant House, 1 East Pallant, Chichester PO19 1TY

Arun District Council, Arun Civic Centre, Maltravers Road, Littlehampton BN17 5LF