Private landlords who offer safe, quality homes that are well managed, are more likely to attract responsible tenants. While the majority of tenancies run very smoothly and terminate agreeably, a minority of tenancies will end in rent arrears and property disrepair.
Increasing your knowledge of landlord and tenant legal obligations and responsibilities and good tenancy management practices can help reduce problem tenancies. Dealing with issues quickly and appropriately when they do occur can prevent otherwise satisfactory tenancies from terminating prematurely.
If you are a landlord or agent who owns and or manages privately rented property in Bolton you can access a range of housing services and tools designed to help you achieve longer and more satisfactory tenancies through Bolton Accredited & Residential Landlord Organisation (BARLO).
Bolton Accredited and Residential Landlord Organisation (BARLO)
BARLO Housing Ltd represents a partnership between private landlords, Bolton Council, Bolton at Home and other Housing Associations operating in Bolton. Operating a voluntary Accreditation Scheme with a Code of Standards means we have a better understanding of where and how the private rented sector is operating in Bolton. This is helping us to develop an approach that recognises and supports responsible private landlords in delivering better property and tenancy management standards
represents a partnership between private landlords, Bolton Council, Bolton at Home and other Housing Associations operating in Bolton. Operating a voluntary Accreditation Scheme with a Code of Standards means we have a better understanding of where and how the private rented sector is operating in Bolton. This is helping us to develop an approach that recognises and supports responsible private landlords in delivering better property and tenancy management standards
With so many new and sometimes experienced private landlords, standards can vary considerably. In certain circumstances weak property and tenancy management standards can result in problem tenancies, which are often unsatisfactory to both the private landlord and their tenant.
BARLO recognises the value and importance of a well managed private rented sector for being quick and easy to access, which offers a wide range of property types and facilities across the borough that help meet the different needs of prospective and current tenants.
Accreditation Scheme.
The main aim of the Accreditation Scheme is to encourage and support improvement in property and tenancy management standards. The Accreditation Scheme Code of Standards is used to help assess whether a property, landlord or agent meets Accreditation Scheme requirements before awarding ‘Accredited Property’ status to individual properties. This Code of Standards does not replace or remove any other landlord legal obligations or responsibilities.
Landlord Benefits
BARLO members who achieve ‘Accredited Property’ status are more easily recognised as reputable landlords. BARLO supports these landlords by offering free and coordinated access to a range of benefits and incentives that can give them a market advantage over similar housing providers
Free advice and support includes:
- Accreditation Officers
- Landlord Support Workers
- Tenant Support Workers
- Housing Advisors
- Anti Social Behaviour Officers
- Housing Benefits Officers
- and many more services
Free services include:
- 'Property to Let' website and newspaper adverts
- Tenant referencing
- Letter templates and forms relating to tenancy agreements, rent, arrears, complaints, checking notices
- and much more
Free landlord forums and events:
- Creating, managing and ending a tenancy
- Understanding the Housing Act 2004
- Tackling anti social behaviour
- Licensing
- and frequent landlord meetings and networking opportunities
Free products and guides include:
- Smoke detectors fitted
- Energy efficient light bulbs
- Draught proofing, loft and cavity wall insulation installed
- Landlord newsletters, booklets, and guides available
Financial incentives include:
- Housing renewal grants and loans
- Gas and electrical safety certificates from £39
- Property insurance discounts
- Contractors preferential rates (ask for details)
Landlords - how to apply
BARLO Housing Ltd operates the Accreditation Scheme on behalf of Bolton Council. Membership application forms and supporting documents can be downloaded from this page. Please use the contact information on the right hand side of this page for more information.