Landlord Accreditation Scheme- frequently asked questions

What standards will my property have to meet?

Both the property and management standards must be satisfied before accreditation is granted.  These are detailed in the Code of Standards and Management Practice leaflet (PDF).

Properties must not have Category 1 hazards present, as defined by the current Housing Standard for private let properties - the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).  We will visit each property submitted for accreditation to assess whether the accreditation standards have been met.  If the property standards have not been met at the time of application, we will work with you to meet the standards.  You will be given a reasonable time period to remedy any unsatisfactory housing standards. 

Management standards are assessed under the Code of Standards and Management Practice.  Landlords must agree to abide by the various detailed elements of the Code.  This includes: treating tenants with respect and fairness; having tenancy agreements in place; abiding by tenancy deposit protection schemes; and following set property repairs and maintenance procedures.

The scheme operates in accordance with ‘Authorities and Landlords improving standards together’ North West Region (A&List NW).

What if my property fails to meet accreditation standards?

We will work with you to rectify any failures and agree a timeframe needed to carry out the works.  You will be given reasons in writing and we will contact you to arrange a re-inspection on or after the agreed date.

What if I am refused accreditation status or have my membership revoked?

You will be given reasons in writing if your membership is suspended or revoked, however you will be entitled to a right of appeal. For more information, see our disciplinary procedures.

If you lose your accredited status for one property, you will lose it for all properties within your portfolio, and will therefore no longer be eligible for any benefits of the scheme.

Do all properties within my portfolio have to be accredited?

You must submit all properties within your portfolio and the properties will be surveyed in date order.

Aside from property and management standards are there any additional requirements of the scheme?

  • You must provide a full list of properties you own or manage, which will be held in the strictest confidence.
  • Provide an updated list to the Strategic Housing Team, on request.
  • Provide access to your properties for the Strategic Housing Team to carry out audits when necessary.
  • Ensure all dwellings meet the requirements of the scheme at all times
  • Landlords must undertake four hours professional development or training over the two year membership term. Attending one of our Landlord Forums per year would satisfy this requirement but we may provide further training opportunities over the membership term which will be detailed in the Landlord Newsletter.

How long does accreditation last for?

Accreditation lasts for five years once the property and management standards have been satisfied and you will be given a certificate for each property. The certificate has a start and expiry date.  We will contact you close to the expiry date.  Within the accreditation period you must renew any certificates that are due to expire, such as a Gas Safety Certificate, or where an electric certificate recommends re-examination of electrical installations.

Is there a list of accredited landlords and properties available to the public?

Yes.  Landlords who agree to be included on the approved list of landlords and properties to let will benefit from free promotion on the Knowsley Council website and have access to the tenancy bond scheme.