COUNCIL bosses are developing an initiative designed to crack down on rogue landlords in Darlington.

It is hoped that the accreditation scheme will go a long way towards improving privately rented property in the area.

Darlington Borough Council said the standards code would enhance the renting sector by publicly identifying landlords and properties that meet stringent criteria.

The Landlord Accreditation Scheme (LAS) will set out the minimum standards for rented accommodation, including design and safety requirements.

The code will also address landlords' management of the property and will lay down expectations for contracts, as well as how the accommodation is serviced and maintained to ensure tenants' basic rights are upheld.

The scheme will be voluntary and will allow accredited landlords to promote the fact they have high-quality accommodation to let.

Council officers believe the scheme will make it harder for landlords who do not reach the standard to let their property.

Councillor Bill Dixon, the council's cabinet member for public protection, said: "This is an important scheme that will reward those landlords who look after tenants and show up those who do not provide a high enough standard of accommodation.

"The majority of private landlords in the borough run their properties well and they will benefit from the LAS as much as their tenants.

"Renting a property can be problematic and being part of the accreditation scheme should help.

"This scheme will also make it easier for people who are looking to rent privately to find somewhere that is comfortable and safe for them to live."

The scheme is due to be launched in November and landlords will be able to sign up once they have shown a commitment to keep their property to the highest standard.

The scheme will be overseen by the council's landlord accreditation officer, who will aim to get various agencies co-operating with private landlords to help them and their tenants.

Membership of the LAS will be free and a range of incentives is being considered to encourage accredited landlords to join.

Information on the scheme will be publicised once the details have been finalised.