The Association of Residential Letting Agents has called for regulation to be extended across the whole of the UK following the roll out of the London Rental Standard voluntary accreditation scheme.
While the new scheme – which was launched by London mayor Boris Johnson – has been welcomed by rental sector organisations, similar national regulation is needed, they have said.
The scheme provides accreditation to landlords and letting agents who have met a series of commitments and completed a one-day course on the subject. It is hoped that the concept will ensure renters will receive a higher standard of service, including better property conditions, transparent fees, improved repair and maintenance times and protected deposits.
ARLA’s managing director designate, David Cox, told OPP-Connect: “ARLA welcomes this bold initiative, designed to raise professional standards in the capital’s private rented sector by providing a consistent benchmark of accreditation for consumers.
“We have long campaigned for regulation of the private rented sector, and it is crucial we eliminate the small minority of unscrupulous landlords and agents who neglect their responsibilities and bring our industry into disrepute.
“While the LRS is an important starting point in London, private rented sector standards are a UK-wide issue, and we will continue our campaign for industry regulation at a national level.”
Recent research found that more than 25 per cent of London’s households are renting, with this figure tipped to rise to almost 40 per cent by the mid 2020s. Despite these high numbers, the research found that the vast majority of landlords – 85 per cent – are unaware of legislation that aims to protect renters.
Boris Johnson confirmed that the scheme aimed to “improve the experience of everyone involved, from landlord to tenant, with a clear set of good practice rules”.