The new Government recently made clear it still wants to pass all aspects of the Renter's Reform Bill in this session of Government, which ends in May 2023.

With this in mind, we're revisiting some of the major changes it poses to landlords & their properties.

One of these changes is the Decent Homes Standard (DHS). It is the minimum standard that is currently applied to all social housing, but not privately rented properties. Under the Renter’s Reform Bill, all privately rented properties will need to meet this minimum standard before they can be let to a tenant.

 

Why is the DHS being used in the Private Rented Sector?

The reason it is going to be enforced in the PRS is because over half a million privately rented properties - 12% of the entire PRS - "pose an imminent risk to tenants' health and safety".

It is also said that 21% of homes don't meet the standard, and those landlords will need to invest in upgrades.

 

So what makes a 'Decent' home?

As outlined in the requirements for meeting the standard, homes must be "free from the most serious health and safety hazards, such as fall risks, fire risks, or carbon monoxide poisoning".

Facilities in the property such as appliances will need to be kept clean & useable, and be replaced before they become too old to be used by the tenant.

  • Landlords will also need to ensure their property...
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  • - Meets the current statutory minimum standard for housing
  • - Is in a reasonable state of repair
  • - Has reasonably modern facilities and services
  • - Provides a reasonable degree of thermal comfort

 

What are the consequences for not meeting the standard?

The new property portal that will also come into force along with the other aspects of the bill will mean all landlords will have to self-declare if their property meets the standard so local councils can see this.

However, if a landlord was to provide information that was false or misleading, they can be fined up to £30,000.

 

If you need advice on whether your property meets the standard or not, and when we expect these changes to come into effect, request a callback from our lettings team below.