Landlords who would like to become members of the Unipol Code for shared student houses have a few stages to complete before they are awarded with accreditation.
Firstly there are two forms that need to be signed and returned; the Property list and the Code Declaration form. You can return printed copies to Unipol. Alternatively, register for an online account and click 'pay Code fee's. Signing the forms mean that you are agreeing to abide by the Code and uphold its standards. A fee is also payable to become a member of the Unipol Code. Costs can be viewed here: Leeds & Nottingham.
The next stage of the accreditation process is the inspections. We inspect properties to a ratio of one in five of a landlord’s portfolio. As part of the inspection we will need to see copies of the following certification:
- Current Gas Certificate (less than 1 year old);
- Current Electrical Wiring Safety Report (less than 5 years old);
- Current HMO Licence (where applicable);
- EPC Certificate
- Fire alarm control panel check certificate (less than 6 months old);
- Evidence that deposits have been protected (if deposits are taken).
We will also be inspecting the physical aspects of the property, and ideally talking to the tenants to enable us to get a feel for the management of the property. To get an idea of the things that we will be looking for, please view the pre-inspection checklist. Finally, we ask you to complete an online test within the first 6 months of membership.
For managing agents we will also visit your offices.
To view a full break down of the Unipol Code guidelines, please click here.
If you have any questions or require any further clarification please email m.allison@unipol.org.uk