New partnership to support private landlords to get qualified

A new partnership has been announced between Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Northern Ireland and TDS Northern Ireland, the leading tenancy deposit protection scheme, to promote professionalism and best practice in the private rented sector.

As part of the partnership, TDS Northern Ireland will financially support a group of private landlords in Northern Ireland to undertake the CIH Level 2 Award in Letting and Managing Residential Property. This will allow landlords to enrol in the qualification for a significantly reduced rate of £71 (from £775).

This 12-week online course provides landlords with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively manage their rental properties, ensuring compliance with tenancy laws and delivering a high-quality service to tenants.

Justin Cartwright, national director of CIH Northern Ireland, said: “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, commented: “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.”

Previous learners on the CIH Level 2 Award reported benefits of attending the course:

• Increased knowledge and confidence: 91 per cent of learners reported increased knowledge as landlords/agents, and 91 per cent gained confidence in renting legalities and compliance with regulations
• Improved service delivery: 78 per cent of learners agreed that the training led to improved service delivery to tenants
• Changed landlord practices: 67 per cent of learners reported that they changed their landlord practices directly due to the course.

The qualification is an online course with tutor-led virtual sessions. Learners will complete an assignment at the end of each unit of study. The course is scheduled as follows:

• Letting and property management legislation: 18 February 2025, 10am-4pm
• Tenancy management: 18 March 2025, 10am-1pm
• Customer care in lettings: 18 April 2025: 10am-1pm.

Places are limited, so landlords are encouraged to apply before the deadline of 27 January 2025.

To apply for the CIH Level 2 Award, please email: housing.academy@cih.org