1. Simon Kemp National Code Administrator Using Accreditation to Raise Standards: An Example

2. What is Accreditation? A voluntary process which landlord/provider agrees to join A means of differentiating ‘good’ from ‘bad’ landlords/providers A local initiative to deal with specific needs? Different approaches taken so meaning is diluted? ANUK’s 4 core values to accreditation devised

3. Core Values to test Accreditation Schemes by Require a declaration – landlords/providers to publicly declare membership Need to be verified – to maintain provider and consumer confidence in scheme Not set in stone – capable of adapting to new and improved standards Allow for complaints – via a transparent and inclusive system

4. Annual renewal required – with details of any changes to property list Providers to notify tenants of properties covered by the codes and details to appear on website (EU requirement) List of members posted on ANUK website and submitted to CLG on an annual basis Declaration Required

5. SAQ used to identify areas of perceived strengths and weaknesses in standards All members visited once every 3 years to check compliance Improvement plans agreed if shortcomings are identified Reports also highlight good practice Verification

6. Benchmark standards that exceed legal requirements – mainly management stds so plenty of scope Standards are reviewed on a regular basis to take account of new legislation, best practice and new demands/products Full consultation before alteration of standards Continuing Improvement

7. In the first instance the tenant/s and the provider should aim to resolve any problems that arise. If resolution is not possible, or there is a serious breach of health and safety, then tenant/s can access National Codes Complaints Procedure Complaint will be investigated and both parties will be able to state their case in writing. A Complaints Tribunal Panel exists – with representatives of providers and tenants – and is chaired by someone independent of the CoM Tribunal Panel will make final decision on whether the Codes have been breached and, if so, what action may be taken Complaints Procedures

8. How are standards being raised? Providers and consumers aware of benchmark management standards expected Clear which providers have an on-going commitment to meeting high standards An independent verification process checking compliance and identifying best practice Access to an independent complaints procedure