Criticism in a recent Government report on poor standards of housing is being combated in an initiative by Great Yarmouth Borough Council.

The report by the Commons Communities and Local Government Committee warns that coastal communities are affected by low-quality accommodation in the private sector.

The Borough Council’s housing department is on the eve of inviting private landlords to sign up to its new accreditation scheme.

“We want to bring housing in the Borough up to the Decent Homes Standard set out in the Housing Act 2004,” said Mark Burns Head of Community Services. “This gives tenants a good standard of facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms, as well aspects such as security, hygiene and safety.

“Obviously to become an accredited landlord the property has to conform.”

“The Council is working hard to lift the standards of accommodation throughout the Borough by giving as much assistance as possible to private landlords,” said Councillor Robert Peck (Community Portfolio).

“The accreditation scheme has been welcomed by property owners as it not only gives them up-to-date information such as how to draw up tenancy agreements, it is also a way of finding new tenants.”

“Having a list of accredited landlords will help our staff when potential tenants are home hunting,” said Private Sector Development Officer Polly Williams. “As being part of the scheme can give access to appearing on the Council’s HomeSelect website which puts tenants and landlords in touch with each other.

“Other benefits to the landlord include access to renewal loans and grants, and discounts on insurance, building supplies, and fire safety equipment.

“Another part of the Council’s work to help private landlords includes the recently formed Landlord’s Forum. A meeting in February saw talks from the rent assessment officer, the police on crime reduction and a solicitor on tenancy deposit protection.”

Anyone wanting to know about future forum events should contact Polly Williams on 01493 846268 or visit the Council’s website www.great-yarmouth.gov.uk.

Landlords wanting to sign up to the accreditation scheme can book an appointment with Polly on the above number. The session will run at the Town Hall from 2 to 7pm on March 15.

For further information contact Enabling Officer Tracey Slater on 01493 846268 or e-mail tjs@great-yarmouth.gov.uk.