Haig Property Solutions signs to rental safety scheme

Knowlsey Council has secured its first recruit for its landlord accreditation scheme, four months after it was launched.

The scheme aims to set standards for privately rented property in the area and is free to join and landlords that apply have their properties viewed by a council surveyor who checks if they meet health and safety standards.

The first property to get the seal of approval is in Paignton Close in Huyton and is run by Haig Property Solutions.

Landlord Matt Haig has been working with officers since the scheme was launched in May.

Haig said: "This has been a simple and easy way to make sure the property meets all the regulations.

"It will bear the accreditation logo and that'll give would-be tenants confidence and make it easier to let. Being a part of the scheme has cost me nothing and the properties that pass are advertised on the council's website."

Matt and Shirley Ann Haig run Haig Property Solutions and have three more properties accredited through the scheme. They are working with the council team to accredit the remaining properties within their portfolio.

Knowsley Council said since the scheme began 25 landlords have enquired about joining and officers have carried out 14 surveys.

Officers are working with a number of landlords on a further seven properties across the borough to meet accreditation standards.

Membership of the scheme includes regular forums with council officers, newsletters with information about housing and the law and advice on where to find out more.

Private landlords in Knowsley can call the council's strategic housing team on 0151 433 2287 to find out more about the scheme.