The National Accreditation Network (ANUK – Accreditation Network UK) has designed a model accreditation scheme that comprises a Landlord Accreditation Scheme and an Accredited Tenant Scheme.

The model scheme is the copyright of the Network and only it’s members are entitled to use it. For details of how the join the Network click here or by e-mail info@anuk.org.uk.

The model scheme has been compiled following careful consideration of many existing schemes that are operating around the UK in order to pull together the best examples of good practice.

The model scheme includes both the requirements of the scheme and the procedure to operate it.

It has been designed so that scheme developers can delete, amend or add any requirements to the scheme to suit their local circumstances. Similarly the scheme developer can amend the model scheme’s operational procedures to suit.

Different types of accreditation scheme are in operation. They can be dwelling accreditation, landlord accreditation, self-certification or a hybrid. Local circumstances will determine what type of scheme is most appropriate.

The ANUK model Landlord Accreditation Scheme is a self-certification type with a proportion of dwellings being checked for compliance. This model has been chosen, as it is one of the most common types operating around the UK. Scheme developers, who favour a different type of scheme, can amend the model scheme accordingly.

The model accreditation schemes have been designed around a Landlord Accreditation Scheme and an Accredited Tenant Scheme operating together. However the design is such that they can be separated and the Landlord Accreditation scheme amended with the minimum of alteration if a scheme operator did not wish to operate an Accredited Tenants Scheme.

The recommended method of issuing Accredited Tenants certificates is by the scheme operator on the recommendation of the landlord. If the scheme operators resources do not permit this, then as a less preferred alternative accredited landlords will be provided with and hold a stock of certificates to be completed and given to the tenant following which the scheme operator will be notified in order to update their records.

Both ANUK and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister on behalf of the Government do recommend Accredited Tenant Schemes.

Organisations that are developing a new scheme or existing scheme operators who are reviewing their scheme are recommended to adopt the ANUK model schemes. This means that, over a period of time, there will be a greater consistency in the type of scheme operating around the UK, which in turn will strengthen the accreditation process.

The model accreditation scheme is version 1. The scheme will be reviewed at the end of 2003 and ANUK would welcome feedback from accreditation practitioners and other private rented sector stakeholders.