News

2 Apr 02

Poole Tenants Awarded Accreditation Status

Good tenants across Poole are being rewarded for their excellence by being given certificates of accreditation status. The Borough of Poole, in partnership with the Dorset Residential Landlords Association will present 45 certificates at a special award ceremony.

To receive an accredited tenant certificate, which can be used as a reference when finding new accommodation, tenants must be nominated by their landlord for being a good tenant by; keeping the property clean and tidy, paying rent on time, being polite and helpful etc. Landlords who nominate tenants will have received accreditation status for the property which demands that it falls above standard requirements; it must be in good decorative order, well managed, safe and energy efficient.

Sally Jacklin, Housing Standards Officer, Borough of Poole, said: "This accreditation is a recognition of the contribution that tenants make in the provision of quality housing in Poole. The scheme has been very successful so far and we hope to continue to accredit tenants in this way. During the presentation evening tenants will also be asked their views on various issues affecting the private rented sector. It is hoped that tenants will come forward to form a focus group so that they can express their views to the Council and consult with us on relevant issues."

Cllr Jane James, Executive spokesperson for Care, said: "This kind of scheme is a great example of how working in partnership can provide positive outcomes for the community, matching good tenants with quality homes. We strive to keep high standards of accommodation in Poole and it is always good to see people rewarded for their commitment. The presentation evening will also mark the first time nationally that the scheme has been expanded to include tenants in the private sector. Congratulations to the scheme and all those involved in it."

The youngest star tenant to receive a certificate will be Sky Perryman, 5 years old, who will be collecting the award with his family on the night.

The main objective of the scheme is to have accredited landlords letting accredited properties occupied by accredited tenants. This will improve the quality of private sector accommodation and promote private sector rented housing.

Poole launched its Accreditation Scheme for the private rented sector in September 1998, it now has 91 tenants and over 80 dwellings accredited. The scheme involves working with private sector landlords to provide rented accommodation that is of a high quality and managed by landlords who are committed to providing safe, comfortable and affordable accommodation for their tenants.

For further information contact:

Sally Jacklin, Housing and Community Services, Borough of Poole  Tel: (01202) 633428 or e-mail: s.jacklin@poole.gov.uk

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