Barnsley RLA

Barnsley RLA, also known as the Barnsley Residential Landlords Association, was established in 1996 by a volunteer committee comprising local landlords. The organisation's primary objective is to champion a robust private rented sector within the Barnsley area, advocating for it as a significant source of accessible and high-quality rental housing. The association was founded to help its members remain informed about new legislation and the evolving landscape of the private rented sector. Operating on a voluntary basis, the firm is managed by experienced volunteer members, with its committee subject to annual re-election.

Membership with Barnsley RLA offers a range of benefits designed to support property management. The annual membership fee is £50, with an initial joining fee of £25, making the first year's cost £75. Members gain access to a dedicated online area containing essential forms and notices for managing property portfolios. The association facilitates regular monthly meetings featuring carefully selected speakers who provide timely updates on current issues and local matters pertinent to tenancy.

These gatherings also provide valuable networking opportunities, allowing landlords to connect, ask questions, and discuss topical issues. Furthermore, the firm provides legislation updates and information, acknowledging the highly regulated nature of the British economy's private rented sector. Barnsley RLA has developed its own "Best landlord Accreditation Scheme," which enables its members to demonstrate adherence to high business and property standards within the private rented sector. This scheme, along with a separate property accreditation scheme, was developed in collaboration with Barnsley Council.

The accreditation aims to encourage professional development, improve property quality, and ensure members are up-to-date with legislative changes and management skills. The association also offers access to low-cost comprehensive landlord insurance, a tenant referral and networking scheme, a list of recommended tradesmen, and low-cost tenancy agreements commissioned from specialists. The association maintains strong relationships with various local authorities and services, including Barnsley Council, the Housing Benefit Department, The Rent Service, the Police, and Fire Services. These connections are instrumental in supporting its members and promoting the private rented sector.

Meetings are consistently held monthly at Shaw Lane Sports Centre in Barnsley, where relevant topics are discussed, and guest speakers present on subjects of interest to landlords. Membership is exclusively open to private landlords who own and manage their own properties, with managing agents and letting agents not admitted. Members are expected to abide by the BRLA Rules of Association and Code of Practice and attend at least four meetings annually, with discussions remaining confidential. While Barnsley RLA supports landlords across the general private rented sector, its core focus is not exclusively on Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA).

The association's services and resources are broadly applicable to landlords managing various types of residential properties within the Barnsley area. The firm's extensive experience lies in assisting private landlords with legislative compliance, property standards, and tenant management across the wider residential rental market. The organisation's efforts are directed towards ensuring all members can operate their rental businesses in a fair, responsible, and professional manner, regardless of their specific portfolio type or size.