Why don t landlords have to provide minimum security standards in their houses which are rented out to students?
There is currently no legislation to enforce landlords to ensure their properties have adequate security. The Home Office is working with the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister to ensure landlords take security into consideration. Many universities run landlord accreditation schemes, through which landlords must agree to meet a variety of minimum standards before the university will let them advertise through their accommodation services. Security should be included in this, making sure that a property has a strong external door, and good locks on the doors and windows. Guidance on minimum security standards is available in ACPO s Secured by Design – information is available at www.securedbydesign.
