Setting up and running a Tenants Association
Why do it?
Well, there's safety (and power) in numbers, and they can give you much greater leverage in dealing with your landlord.
You should be aware that private sector landlords do not have to "recognise" a tenants association, but they can still be a very useful way of people working together with other tenants to solve your problems rather than as isolated (and less powerful) individuals.
However, housing associations and all registered social landlords* (RSLs) must "recognise" a formal tenants association, and consult and involve them in the management of their homes.
To find out more, visit www.housingcorp.gov.uk (opens in a new window) and click on "Residents' rights and responsibilities" on the left of the screen. "A Charter for housing association applicants and residents" is the document you need to read.
*Registered social landlord is a technical term that covers all housing associations, trusts, co-operatives and companies registered with the Housing Corporation.
More Information
For more information on how to set up a tenants association, visit www.tpas.org.uk (opens in a new window), click on "Information & Resources" and then look at the relevant Information Sheets and Subject Guides.
