Explore the criteria for each MSH Award category and learn what our judging panel looks for in a strong nomination. Whether you're recognising a landlord, a private hall, or a community champion, these criteria will help you understand how nominations are assessed and what makes an entry stand out.
HMO Landlord Award (More than 10 Properties)
For larger portfolio landlords demonstrating consistency and leadership
1. Consistency of Standards
How does this landlord ensure quality and safety across multiple properties?
2. Management Systems
What evidence is there of clear processes for repairs, communication, or complaint handling?
3. Tenant Wellbeing
How does this landlord support student wellbeing beyond minimum legal requirements?
4. Professionalism & Fair Practice
How does the landlord demonstrate transparency and fairness in contracts, deposits, or letting practices?
5. Sector Contribution
In what ways has this landlord contributed positively to raising standards or working constructively with partners such as Manchester Student Homes or universities?
⭐ Judging Scoring Matrix
Each question is scored on a 1–5 scale.
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Score
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Description
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1 – Limited Evidence
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Minimal detail provided. Meets only basic expectations or unclear impact.
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2 – Developing
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Some positive practice shown, but inconsistent or limited evidence of impact.
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3 – Good
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Clear evidence of solid practice. Meets expectations well and shows positive impact.
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4 – Very Good
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Strong, consistent evidence. Goes beyond standard expectations in several areas.
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5 – Outstanding
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Exceptional practice. Clear, sustained impact. Significantly exceeds expectations and stands out from peers.
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🏆 Category Scoring Structure
HMO Landlord (10+ Properties) - Total Possible: 25
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Criterion
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Score (1–5)
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Consistency of Standards
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Management Systems
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Tenant Wellbeing
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Professionalism & Fair Practice
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Sector Contribution / Partnership
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HMO Landlord Award (Fewer than 10 Properties)
For landlords demonstrating excellent small-scale, hands-on management
1. Property Standards
How does this landlord maintain the quality and safety of their properties?
(Examples of upkeep, improvements, inspections, or safety measures)
2. Tenant Experience
In what ways does this landlord create a positive experience for student tenants?
(Communication style, fairness, respect, professionalism)
3. Responsiveness
Can you give an example of how the landlord handled a repair, issue, or concern effectively?
4. Approach to Students
How does this landlord show understanding of student needs or go beyond basic expectations?
5. Engagement & Good Practice
How has this landlord engaged positively with Manchester Student Homes or shown openness to good practice and improvement?
⭐ Judging Scoring Matrix
Each question is scored on a 1–5 scale.
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Score
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Description
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1 – Limited Evidence
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Minimal detail provided. Meets only basic expectations or unclear impact.
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2 – Developing
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Some positive practice shown, but inconsistent or limited evidence of impact.
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3 – Good
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Clear evidence of solid practice. Meets expectations well and shows positive impact.
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4 – Very Good
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<>Strong, consistent evidence. Goes beyond standard expectations in several areas.
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5 – Outstanding
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Exceptional practice. Clear, sustained impact. Significantly exceeds expectations and stands out from peers
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🏆 Category Scoring Structure
Judges score each nomination question using the 1–5 scale.
HMO Landlord (<10 Properties) - Total Possible: 25
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Criterion
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Score (1–5)
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Property Standards
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Tenant Experience
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Responsiveness to Issues
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Student-Focused Approach
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Engagement with Good Practice / MSH
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Private Hall Award
1. Quality of Accommodation
What makes this accommodation stand out in terms of safety, design, facilities, or maintenance?
2. Student Support & Welfare
How does the scheme support student wellbeing, safety, or inclusion?
3. Management & Communication
How does the on-site team demonstrate professionalism, responsiveness, and clear communication?
4. Community & Student Experience
What initiatives or practices help build a positive resident community?
5. Responsible Operation
How does the accommodation provider demonstrate ethical practice, regulatory compliance, and positive engagement with partners?
⭐ Judging Scoring Matrix
Each question is scored on a 1–5 scale.
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Score
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Description
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1 – Limited Evidence
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Minimal detail provided. Meets only basic expectations or unclear impact.
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|
2 – Developing
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Some positive practice shown, but inconsistent or limited evidence of impact.
|
|
3 – Good
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Clear evidence of solid practice. Meets expectations well and shows positive impact.
|
|
4 – Very Good
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Strong, consistent evidence. Goes beyond standard expectations in several areas.
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Exceptional practice. Clear, sustained impact. Significantly exceeds expectations and stands out from peers
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🏆 Category Scoring Structure
Private Hall Development - Total Possible: 25
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Criterion
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Score (1–5)
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Quality of Accommodation
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Student Support & Welfare
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Management & Communication
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Community & Student Experience
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Responsible & Ethical Operation
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Good Neighbours Award
This award recognises any individual or group who helps create a respectful, supportive, and connected community in areas where students live.
Positive impact on the wider neighbourhood, bringing students and long-term residents together.
✅ Open to:
- Students
- Long-term residents
- Landlords or housing staff
- Community groups
- Local volunteers
- Neighbourhood organisations
⭐ Judging Criteria
Nominees may demonstrate impact in one or more of the following areas:
🤝 Strengthening Community Connections
- Bringing students and long-term residents together
- Encouraging mutual understanding and respect
- Supporting integration of students into local neighbourhood life
💛 Supporting People’s Wellbeing
- Helping students, neighbours, or vulnerable residents
- Acts of kindness, support, or practical help
- Creating safe and welcoming environments
🏘️ Positive Neighbourhood Impact
- Improving shared spaces or local initiatives
- Reducing tensions or resolving issues constructively
- Promoting responsible, respectful living
🌱 Going Above and Beyond
- Voluntary or additional efforts outside normal expectations
- Consistent, sustained contribution to the community
- Taking initiative to make things better
✨ Making a Lasting Difference
- Clear, meaningful impact on people or the neighbourhood
- A contribution others recognise and value
Community Award - Total Possible: 25
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Criterion
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Score (1–5)
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Nature of Contribution
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Going Above and Beyond
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Support for Wellbeing & Inclusion
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Community Impact
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Lasting Difference
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