A new partnership has been formed between the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Northern Ireland and the tenancy deposit service, TDS Northern Ireland, with the goal of promoting professionalism and encouraging best practices within the private rented sector. This collaboration is seen as an important step towards raising the standards of the industry, ensuring that both landlords and tenants benefit from improved practices and greater professionalism in property management.
As part of the initiative, TDS Northern Ireland will provide financial support to a select group of private landlords in the region. This will enable them to enrol in the CIH Level 2 Award in Letting and Managing Residential Property at a significantly reduced rate. The qualification, which is highly regarded within the industry, aims to provide landlords with the knowledge and skills required to operate effectively and ethically in the sector.
The CIH Level 2 Award is a 12-week online course that offers comprehensive training in the essentials of property management. The course covers a wide range of topics, including tenancy law, property maintenance, and effective communication with tenants. Landlords will also learn about their legal obligations and the best practices for ensuring compliance with the relevant regulations.
This qualification not only helps landlords to better manage their properties, but also empowers them to deliver a higher standard of service to their tenants. By equipping landlords with the necessary skills and expertise, the course ultimately aims to improve the tenant experience, leading to fewer disputes and greater satisfaction for all parties involved.
By supporting landlords in their professional development, this partnership also contributes to the long-term stability and growth of the private rented sector. With increasing pressure on the housing market, ensuring that landlords are well-equipped to manage their properties effectively is crucial. The collaboration between CIH Northern Ireland and TDS Northern Ireland highlights the importance of continuous learning and improvement in creating a better, more sustainable rental market for the future.
Justin Cartwright, national director of CIH Northern Ireland, expressed his enthusiasm about the new collaboration with TDS Northern Ireland. He stated, “We are delighted to partner with TDS Northern Ireland on this important initiative. The CIH Level 2 Award is a valuable qualification for any landlord who wants to improve their property management practices and ensure that their tenants have a positive experience. We encourage landlords to take advantage of this opportunity to invest in their professional development.”
Eamonn Hunt, head of TDS Northern Ireland, also shared his thoughts on the partnership. He emphasised the significance of professional property management for the sustainability of the private rented sector. “We believe that professional property management is essential for the long-term success of the private rented sector. By supporting landlords to gain the necessary qualifications, we are helping to raise standards and improve the quality of rental accommodation available to tenants. We are proud to partner with CIH Northern Ireland on this initiative,” said Hunt.
Both leaders highlighted the importance of continuous professional development for landlords, particularly in a sector that is constantly evolving. They believe that by offering landlords the opportunity to enhance their skills, this partnership will contribute to higher standards of service across the board. The collaboration aims to not only improve property management but also promote better experiences for tenants, who will ultimately benefit from well-managed homes.
This partnership is seen as a crucial step towards raising the bar in the private rented sector, where both landlords and tenants often face challenges related to property maintenance, legal compliance, and effective communication. By offering affordable access to a respected qualification, the initiative seeks to equip landlords with the tools they need to succeed and improve the rental market as a whole.
This partnership represents a shared commitment to driving change and promoting excellence within the private rental sector. With the expertise and support of CIH Northern Ireland and TDS Northern Ireland, landlords have a unique opportunity to upskill, meet regulatory requirements, and offer tenants the high-quality rental experiences they deserve.
The CIH Level 2 Award in Letting and Managing Residential Property is delivered as an online course with tutor-led virtual sessions. This format ensures that learners can engage with the content from the comfort of their own home while receiving expert guidance throughout their studies. To reinforce learning, participants will complete an assignment at the end of each unit.
The course is divided into several key units, each focusing on a critical aspect of property management. The first session, covering “Letting and Property Management Legislation,” will take place on 18th February 2025 from 10am to 4pm. This session will delve into the legal framework surrounding property lettings, providing landlords with the essential knowledge they need to ensure compliance with current laws.
Following that, the second session will cover “Tenancy Management,” scheduled for 18th March 2025, from 10am to 1pm. This module will explore best practices in managing tenancies, including how to handle tenancy agreements, rent collection, and dispute resolution.
The final session, “Customer Care in Lettings,” will be held on 18th April 2025, from 10am to 1pm. This session focuses on improving communication and building positive relationships with tenants, an essential skill for maintaining high levels of tenant satisfaction and retention.
As spaces are limited, landlords are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, with the application deadline set for 27th January 2025. This presents a valuable opportunity for landlords to enhance their professional qualifications and gain the knowledge required to run their rental businesses effectively.