ROGUE landlords in Darlington will be targeted as part of a council-run scheme launched this week.

Darlington Borough Council unveiled its Landlord Accreditation Scheme and Landlords' Forum at an information day.

Landlords meeting the scheme's requirements will receive three years' accreditation in a bid to improve rented houses.

Councillor Bill Dixon, cabinet member for public protection, said: "We want this accreditation scheme to drive up standards in the private rental sector.

"It will help both landlord and tenant by recognising those whose property is well-maintained and managed, and in turn giving confidence to tenants that accommodation, facilities and furniture supplied, meet standards of health, safety and comfort, and that repairs and maintenance will be carried out to a high standard within a set timescale."

Accreditation is based on a national code of practice. The council has set out the minimum standards for landlords to meet.

Landlords must apply to become a member of the scheme, providing information on all their housing in the borough.

Inspections will be carried out to check houses meet the required standard.

An upgrade plan for homes that fail to meet the standard will be drawn up.

Landlords in the scheme receive support, advice and discounted services, such as insurance and use of the council's bulky waste service.

For more information contact the housing department on (01325) 734105.