Landlord and tenant responsibilities
Private housing accounts for more than 80,300 properties across Herefordshire, providing accommodation for over 178,000 people. Everyone in Herefordshire should have the opportunity to live in a safe and healthy home. We work with private landlords, tenants and home owners to improve the quality of people's homes. We provide licences and accreditation for landlords and, if necessary, we can require repair or carry out improvements to a residential property so that it meets minimum housing standards. You can find more about rights and responsibilities for both tenants and landlords on the government's private renting pages. Also see our licence for a house in multiple occupation page.
Repairs and maintenance to a property
It is the owner's responsibility to maintain the property and to carry out repairs. When repairs or maintenance are required, tenants should always contact the landlord in the first instance. If a landlord ignores a tenant's request or refuses to carry out necessary repairs, we may be able to offer help and advice. An officer will discuss the details or arrange to visit. Where unacceptable hazards exist in the premises, we will contact the landlord to discuss the condition and the options available. Enforcement procedures are available where informal action is unsuccessful or inappropriate.
If you have any concerns over safety at a rented home and are a landlord or tenant, you can email _ehtsSAPEHHousing@herefordshire.gov.uk or call 01432 261761 on Monday to Friday - 9am to 4.15pm. We aim to respond to your enquiry within five working days.
Landlord and agent accreditation
The Midland Landlord Accreditation Scheme (MLAS) is managed by Homestamp on behalf of Herefordshire Council and other partners with the primary focus of accrediting professional landlords and agents across the Midlands. There's a range of benefits you can gain through being a member of MLAS. Being recognised as a professional landlord also provides assurance to prospective tenants, and gives you access to a range of advice, training, CPD workshops and support.