A NEW scheme to improve the state of student homes across Southampton has been launched by education and council bosses.

The initiative, set up by the city council alongside the university and Institute, will see housing officers inspecting homes to make sure they are up to scratch.

Councillor Paul Russell, Cabinet member for housing & homes, said: "Poor conditions, management complaints and noise nuisance are all common problems with shared houses, especially those occupied by students.

"By working with private landlords, we aim to help address these issues, improve standards and encourage good relations between student tenants and all other members of the local community."

There are currently around 2,500 shared student houses in Southampton.

Council housing officers will be offering advice on guidance to landlords on how they can get their properties accredited.

University accommodation officer Martin Cliburn said: "We will maintain and operate a database of all the properties that have been accredited through the scheme and pass these details on to our students so that they can choose accommodation that has been registered. Students will of course have an active role in the scheme and will be encouraged to advise of any matters of concern they may have in any aspect of their housing arrangements."

Mark Dickson, Students Union president at Southampton Institute, said: "When students leave the security of living in halls of residence, it is important they understand the standard of accommodation they should expect in the private rented sector.

"This new scheme will ensure that students are not getting ripped off and most importantly live in safe and comfortable homes."