The Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, states he “does not want landlords to leave the market”.

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He asserts that the Good Landlord Charter will help eliminate rogue landlords while recognising the efforts of good landlords who often go unnoticed.

The Charter aims to improve rental homes across Greater Manchester by ensuring all properties meet the EPC C standard and encouraging landlords to refer tenants who may be facing  homelessness to the council.

Speaking at a landlords association’s conference, Burnham said:?“Without good, safe housing, people cannot achieve their potential, and places cannot deliver growth.

“We know that new homes on their own won’t solve the housing crisis and the private rented sector is a key partner in helping us meet housing need across the region.

“For the thousands in private rented accommodation, having a good landlord can make the world of difference to their lives.

“That’s why we have launched our Good Landlord Charter, that will give confidence to renters and recognise good landlords. And it’s why we’re investing to grow the local teams who are working to root out those who give the sector a bad name.

“Getting housing right is a big challenge – but one that is essential to delivering lasting change and sustainable growth for our people and places. By working together, we can meet that challenge and provide healthy, secure housing for all our residents.”

The Mayor stresses that the Good Landlord Charter aims to hold bad landlords accountable while supporting those who uphold high standards, rather than pushing landlords out.

A spokesperson for the landlord association says it fully supports the initiative and encourages members to join the scheme, said: “Andy Burnham’s pledge to collaborate with the association and its members to raise standards and drive out rogue landlords from the sector was most welcome.