The Renters' Rights Bill: The Decent Homes Standard

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The information in this article is based on the Renters' Rights Bill as currently proposed. While these measures are likely to come into effect, they are not yet law and are subject to change. The content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. Landlords are advised to regularly check for updates on the legislation and seek professional guidance to ensure compliance with any future legal requirements.

As part of the Renters' Rights Bill, the UK government is proposing to extend the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector to improve housing quality. Originally designed for social housing, this standard ensures all rented homes meet basic living conditions. This reform is further strengthened by Awaab’s Law that requires landlords to act more swiftly in addressing serious health hazards like damp and mould.

What Is the Decent Homes Standard?

A home must:

  • Be free from serious hazards such as damp, mould, and fire risks (assessed by the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS))

  • Be in a reasonable state of repair, with well-maintained key components

  • Have modern kitchens and bathrooms

  • Provide adequate insulation and heating

What This Means for Landlords

Landlords will need to:

  • Conduct regular inspections to identify any issues

  • Upgrade unsafe or outdated facilities to meet current standards

  • Maintain properties proactively to avoid hazards

Failure to comply could result in penalties and enforcement actions.

The Role of the HHSRS & Property Portal

The HHSRS assesses housing hazards, categorising them as:

  • Category 1 – Serious health and safety risks

  • Category 2 – Lesser but notable risks

The government plans to simplify this system to make it easier to navigate. The new Property Portal (another component of the proposed legislation) will require landlords to:

  • Register rental properties

  • Declare compliance with the Decent Homes Standard

  • Improve transparency and enforcement in the rental market

As these new changes take effect, it's essential that landlords stay informed and prepared. Our team is here to help guide you through the evolving landscape of rental regulations, ensuring that your properties remain compliant and that you can continue to provide safe, high-quality homes for tenants. If you have any questions or need assistance with managing your rental properties in light of these upcoming changes, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.