RwC Scheme Lettings Standards

Property Standards:

1. Landlords must ensure that their properties provide a safe and healthy environment for any potential occupier or visitor. This includes, but is not limited to ensuring that the property is:
   • Free from damp and has adequate natural or mechanical ventilation where necessary to control moisture levels.
   • Provided with adequate thermal insulation and a suitable and effective means of space heating so that the dwelling space can be economically maintained at a reasonable temperature.
   • Free from hazards and provides a safe and secure home for your tenants. (More information is available here: Housing health and safety rating system (HHSRS): guidance for landlords and property-related professionals - Publications - GOV.UK)
2. Landlords must ensure that the property has adequate fire detection and where a gas or solid fuel appliance is present, adequate carbon monoxide detection.
3. Landlords must ensure that the electrical installation is safe and that adequate checks are undertaken on each property (best practice would include obtaining an electrical safety certificate).
4. Any furnished properties must comply with the The Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988.
5. All properties should be provided in a clean decorative condition at the start of each tenancy.
6. Landlords should ensure that all gardens are in a clean and tidy state at the start of each tenancy.

Management Standards:

1. Landlords must comply with all relevant housing legislation and regulations, including but not limited to the following:
   • An annual gas safety inspection must be carried out in properties with gas installations. Landlords' responsibility for gas safety.
   • The property must have an Energy Performance Certificate - GOV.UK; the rating should be “E” or better.
   • Any deposits taken must be protected under a Government approved scheme. Tenancy deposit protection - GOV.UK
   • Correct legal procedures for possession must be followed in all cases. Guidance for landlords who wish to gain possession of their property. Gov.UK
2. Tenants should be provided with a written tenancy agreement and written inventory at the start of a new tenancy. Model forms are available from via: Gov.UK Model Tenancy Agreement.
3. Landlords must respond to any reported repairs in a timely and professional manner.
4. Landlords must give at least 24 hours written notice for access in all cases except where access is required in a genuine emergency.
5. Landlords should try to minimise void periods or when this is unavoidable are encouraged to contact the Private Sector Housing’s Empty Homes Team for advice and assistance.
6. Landlords should always act in a fair, reasonable and professional manner in their dealings with tenants. You must not discriminate because of colour, ethnicity, disability, age, sex, or sexuality.