The council has been awarded £41,995 from the government’s Rogue Landlord Enforcement Grant after it successfully bid for the money last year. 

The funds will be used to do more to inform tenants and landlords of their rights and responsibilities, as well as set up an online property star rating scheme based on set criteria to help prospective tenants when deciding on a possible new home to rent. This will be similar to a Rent with Confidence Scheme.  

By working with landlords, letting and managing agents it is hoped property standards in the private rented sector will improve.  

The council will initially be rolling out a pilot project in St Michael’s ward in Workington where there is a high level of privately rented properties. 

Speaking on the project, Cllr Carni McCarron-Holmes, Executive member with responsibility for housing, said: “The scheme will be a great way for private renters to ensure they are getting decent quality accommodation from a reputable landlord or property agent. Private landlords and letting agents will be able to set the show off the standards of their properties similar to the five-star rating in hotel / B&B accommodation, through an independent scheme run by the Council. A growing number of residents rely on the private rented sector in Allerdale and the St Michael’s pilot scheme is a way for the Council to work with landlords to help ensure tenants enjoy good quality safe homes”. 

As there is currently no requirement for a landlord to register their property with the local authority, it is currently drawling up a list of private landlords in the area. If you are a private rented sector tenant living or landlord renting property in the area and want to know more about the scheme please contact the landlord engagement officer on: 01900 702601 or email Housing.services@allerdale.gov.uk 

Property rented by those landlords choosing not to engage in the pilot will be targeted for housing inspections and where appropriate, enforcement action will be taken.  

It is hoped that once the pilot has been carried out, the scheme will be rolled out to other areas in Allerdale.