Private Landlord Accreditation Scheme

Our new private landlord accreditation scheme will benefit both you and your tenants. Find out more about the scheme and how to apply.

Contact us for housing advice by phone - call 03000 268 000 - or by email housingsolutions@durham.gov.uk. At this time we're not able to provide advice face to face.

Complete our online form to tell us you are at risk of becoming homeless or contact us as as soon as possible, if you feel that you are at risk.

What is private landlord accreditation?

Icon for pdf Private Landlord Accreditation Scheme (PDF, 1.3mb) is voluntary, requiring private landlords to work in line with a Code of Practice. It recognises landlords who offer good quality, well-managed accommodation and promotes the ongoing improvement of housing in the private rental sector by encouraging all landlords to achieve the same standards.

Benefits of membership

There are benefits to both landlords and tenants, including:

A certificate awarded for recognition to display on premises
Advertising of empty properties on our Durham Key Options website - accessed by people looking and registering for social housing
A tenant referencing service
Template documentation including a tenancy agreement
Access to tenancy advice
An invitation to our landlord forum, training events and quarterly newsletter; which feature guest speakers, legislative updates and topics of interest
Access to financial assistance to return long term empty properties back into occupation (subject to availability, terms and conditions)
Access to the Rent Deposit Guarantee Scheme (subject to qualification, terms and conditions)
Recognition of landlords offering good quality accommodation