Council proposes student accommodation quality accreditation mark

A new accreditation scheme is set to be introduced by Shropshire Council this year (2016) to promote high safety standards in private accommodation for students.

The council is asking landlords, residents and other interested groups or individuals for their opinion on the council’s proposed scheme.

Karen Collier, Shropshire Council’s operations manager for health and community protection, said:

“The scheme will give landlords and prospective tenants the knowledge that a property meets the required standard of safety and is of a good state of repair.

“Moving into the private rented sector for the first time is a big step for many students and their parents. The Accreditation Mark provides assurance that the property has been inspected by Shropshire Council and meets the required standard.

“I would encourage all those with an interest in the scheme to submit their comments on the proposed Student Accommodation Quality Accreditation Mark to community.protection@shropshire.gov.uk by Friday 18 March 2016.”

To qualify for the Accreditation Mark a property must be in a good condition and free from serious hazards. Landlords must adhere to good management practices that are fair and reasonable. In addition to this there will be certain equipment and facilities that are specifically required by students eg desk with a chair, washing machine and access to a wireless Internet connection.

Full details of the consultation are available on the ‘get involved’ pages of Shropshire Council’s website – click here.