Oldham Council believes that every resident should have a safe place to call home.
Part of the Oldham Offer is ensuring renters know where to go for information and assistance, how to access support and the steps they can take to stay in their homes and tenancies.
The second highest cause of homelessness in Oldham is eviction from private rented homes.
As outlined in the Council’s Housing Strategy 2019, we made a commitment to:
- Provide access to information and accommodation
- Prioritise Early intervention and prevention
- Provide support to those most in need
The core values of the charter underpin the above priorities and the Council’s vision for private tenants.
These principles are shared by our partner organisations and agencies who champion a positive rental experience in Oldham’s private rented sector.
As part of the Council’s responsibility and commitment, we will make sure tenants and landlords are compliant through tenancy support, positive engagement and access to up-to-date information.
We will aim to simplify a complex legislative framework, reminding landlords and tenants that the law takes precedence over clauses in a tenancy agreement
Quality every private sector tenant should live in a quality home that is safe and promotes their health and wellbeing.
Communication
A commitment to ensure that residents have access to up-to-date and accurate advice and information, that is freely and easily available in various formats. The aim is that the information will empower and equip residents with the necessary tools to take corrective action where they are treated unfairly.
Relationships and Engagement
Continue to build strong relationships with private rented stakeholders including, tenants, landlords and agents. We will provide dedicated advice and guidance, landlord and tenant training events and more. We will create a platform to help promote best practice, share experiences, and collaborate in shaping the future of Oldham’s private rented sector.
Supply and Growth
By working closely landlords and agents will continue to increase the supply of quality homes that are both available and affordable for Oldham’s residents.
Accountability and Responsibility
Entering into a tenancy agreement is a legal obligation on both sides, it comes with an element of accountability and responsibility. Both parties are expected to do what is reasonable and proportional in the eyes of the law to resolve any problems that may arise.
Transparency and Approachability
A commitment to build trust amongst private rental sector stakeholders in order to create and build good relationships. The Council will always lead by example and we will champion this value through a series of engagement events and consistent education
Role of the Private Rental Sector
Understanding that the private rental sector is an extension of the social housing sector therefore, it should offer the same security, standards and experience as living in social housing. Stakeholders must embrace the shared responsibility to ensure we realise that goal.
Resilience
Maintaining resilience in the face of economic and social challenges and to always seek guidance and assistance from the community of champions.