Simon Kemp

National Code Administrator

Using Accreditation to Raise Standards:

An Example

What is Accreditation?

• A voluntary process which landlord/provider agrees to join

• A means of differentiating ‘good’ from ‘bad’ landlords/providers

• A local initiative to deal with specific needs?

• Different approaches taken so meaning is diluted?

• ANUK’s 4 core values to accreditation devised

Core Values to test Accreditation Schemes by

• Require a declaration – landlords/providers to publicly declare membership

• Need to be verified – to maintain provider and consumer confidence in scheme

• Not set in stone – capable of adapting to new and improved standards

• Allow for complaints – via a transparent and inclusive system

• Annual renewal required – with details of any changes to property list

• Providers to notify tenants of properties covered by the codes and details to appear on website (EU requirement)

• List of members posted on ANUK website and submitted to CLG on an annual basis

Declaration Required

• SAQ used to identify areas of perceived strengths and weaknesses in standards

• All members visited once every 3 years to check compliance

• Improvement plans agreed if shortcomings are identified

• Reports also highlight good practice

Verification

• Benchmark standards that exceed legal requirements – mainly management stds so plenty of scope

• Standards are reviewed on a regular basis to take account of new legislation, best practice and new demands/products

• Full consultation before alteration of standards

Continuing Improvement

• In the first instance the tenant/s and the provider should aim to resolve any problems that arise.

• If resolution is not possible, or there is a serious breach of health and safety, then tenant/s can access National Codes Complaints Procedure

• Complaint will be investigated and both parties will be able to state their case in writing.

• A Complaints Tribunal Panel exists – with representatives of providers and tenants – and is chaired by someone independent of the CoM

• Tribunal Panel will make final decision on whether the Codes have been breached and, if so, what action may be taken

Complaints Procedures

How are standards being raised?

• Providers and consumers aware of benchmark management standards expected

• Clear which providers have an on-going commitment to meeting high standards

• An independent verification process checking compliance and identifying best practice

• Access to an independent complaints procedure