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Landlord Accreditation Scheme

What is the Landlords Accreditation Scheme (LAS)?
A scheme to recognise good landlords and agents who have the skills needed to run a successful rental business and provide good quality and safe accommodation.

Who can apply to be accredited?
Any individual, partnership, company or agent, whether you are a landlord, thinking of becoming a landlord or letting or managing agent.

What skills do I need?
To be aware of the rules and regulations covering landlord and tenancy issues, health and safety, contracts and property management.

How do I become accredited?
By attending a one-day development course, agree to follow a code of conduct and to be a fit and proper person.

Is there a fee for accreditation?
No, but there is a charge for the development course.

What does the code of conduct require?
That you comply with the law and carry out urgent works promptly. If there is work that needs to be done, you must draw up a plan of action. Also, that you will not act in a manner that brings the Landlord Accreditation Scheme into disrepute.

Who is a "Fit and Proper" person?
A person who has not committed any offences or had actions taken against them as detailed in the Housing Act. Convictions for harassment discrimination, and legal orders may disqualify an applicant.

Do I need to own a rented property to be accredited?
No. The scheme is open to any landlord or agents or to those who are considering becoming a landlord. Similar schemes operate in other parts of the country and offer the same courses; attending one of these courses will count towards membership of the LAS and vice versa.

What are the benefits of being accredited?
Recognition that you are a good landlord and agent

• Reduced fees for licensing
• Preferential treatment by Universities
• Regularly updated reference material
• Regular updates
• Varies from Council to Council

How long does accreditation last?
Up to 5 years. You will be re-accredited after 5 years, provided you have complied with the code of conduct, continued to be a fit and proper person and taken steps to maintain your knowledge and keep up to date with changes, by undertaking Continuous Professional Development (CPD).

How can I gain Continuous Professional Development (CPD)?
Most events which provide you with information will count towards your CPD, such as attending the annual London Landlords' Day event and local landlord forums; undertaking additional training and seminars and membership of a landlord's or agent's organisation.

What about limited companies and partnerships?
For partnerships and limited companies, at least 2/3rds of all persons actively involved in the business will need to attend a development course. They will also all have to agree to the code of conduct and be fit and proper persons.

Are there any additional requirements for accredited agents?
The agency must be able to show that they are competent organisation such as membership of a recognised professional body governed by a code of conduct.

Who runs the LAS?
It is a partnership of Councils, private landlord organisations. It is currently administered by the London Borough of Camden on behalf of the partnership.

Where can I get additional information about the scheme?
For additional information and to register online visit: www.londonlandlords.org.uk Opens in a new window