The voluntary scheme follows successful trials in four areas – Edinburgh, South Ayrshire, Dumfries and Galloway and Dundee – and aims to reward landlords who provide good quality housing and allow tenants to have a reference when seeking rental accommodation.
Communities Minister, Stewart Maxwell, said: “This will be a boost to both landlords and tenants in the private rented sector and I’m delighted that landlord groups are getting behind it. For the first time, tenants nationwide will be given the reassurance that their prospective landlords maintain and manage their properties to good standards.”
Landlords who sign up to the scheme will receive best practice guidelines, as well as training to improve their performance.
Relevant bodies will soon be asked to apply to run the scheme, with the Scottish Association of Landlords backing the proposal.
Its director, John Blackwood, said: “Developing a national scheme, open to all landlords, is an excellent opportunity for them to promote their properties and service in a way that has never been available before. It is truly reassuring to hear of positive initiatives of engagement with the private rented sector that both rewards and promotes good practice.”
Pierre Williams, head of communications at Instant Access Group, welcomed the proposal. “We are all in favour of improving standards, both for letters and lettees, and also in providing clarity when it comes to the expectations for both parties. That way, neither are disappointed nor can fail to provide standards which both are happy with and expect.”
