Accredited Private Landlord Scheme (APLS)

District of Easington Council introduced the Accredited Private Landlord Scheme (APLS) in 2002 to raise housing standards for tenants while at the same time assisting landlords to manage their properties effectively.

APLS is a voluntary scheme that any landlord can apply to join regardless of the number or type of properties they own.

About this service

What are the advantages of joining?

Registered APLS members can access professional advice and support from dedicated officers on any aspect of managing their property.

Other benefits include:

• Advertising of vacant properties at strategic points across the District. 

• Screening of prospective tenants, including a five year housing history check and police check for any disclosable unspent convictions

• Provision of tenancy agreements and all other tenancy related legal documents

• Advice on dealing with tenancy breaches

• Regular updates on new legislation

• Discount schemes

Opportunities to become involved in local decision making affecting private rented accommodation and a regular news bulletin which assists you in the efficient management of your property.  The bulletin is also available to download on this page.

Is there a fee to pay?

Yes, you will be charged an initial registration fee determined by the amount of property you register and the usual fixed rate fee is applied.  The annual renewal fee, at the same rate will then become due at the beginning of the following financial year i.e. 1st April and a request for payment account will be sent to you prior to this date.  Please note if your property portfolio changes at any time during the year, the renewal fee will not be amended until the following April.

For more details on fees,  please contact the housing renewal team.  Further details are also available on the APLS registration form which can be downloaded from this page.

How do I become accredited?

Registration is easy.  Simply contact the team and we will send you a registration form or download the membership registration form from the lower right hand side of this page.  It should be noted that ALL rental properties you own,  within the District must be registered.

What happens next?

We will make an appointment to carry out an inspection of the dwelling(s) under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) Housing Act part 1.  This is to ensure that the property is free from potential hazards that could affect the health and safety of any occupants or visitors.

Membership of the APLS scheme gives landlords an opportunity to work with council officers on an informal basis to prioritise and take appropriate remedial action if any deficiencies are identified.

All newly registered landlords will be provided with an introductory pack containing more detailed information on all aspects of renting and managing their property.

How long will the accreditation process take?

There are two stages of accreditation: -

• The interim stage - Applicants are classed as 'working towards accreditation' as soon as we have received their registration document and fee,  however all services offered can be accessed at this stage.

• The completion stage - Applicants will remain at the above status until all necessary inspections have taken place and the Accreditation Officer is satisfied that all legislation is complied with.  Fully Accredited Certification will then be issued.

This is a brief overview of APLS,  however is it not possible to cover every aspect of the services provided.  Should you wish to discuss the scheme further please do not hesitate to contact us.  Appointments can also be arranged to discuss the scheme is person.

Some frequently asked questions

Can letting agents join the accreditation scheme?

Yes,  letting agents are welcome to join the scheme and will enjoy the same benefits outlined above.