Landlords take note: new standards for rented homes under consideration

The government has launched a consultation on introducing a Decent Homes Standard to the rented sector. The measures would closely align the rental market with the social rented sector, where a decent home standard has been in place since 2001.

The latest consultation follows a raft of measures introduced over the last decade for renters, including legislation such as the Housing and Planning Act 2016, the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, and the Tenant Fees Act 2019.

On 16 June 2022, the government published a landmark white paper for the private rented sector, including plans to end section 21 notices, introduce a new ombudsman, and limit rent rises to once per year.

What would a Decent Homes Standard mean for landlords?

If new standards are to be introduced, it will have significant implications for landlords - requiring them to bring their rental properties up to scratch. 

According to the government, around a quarter of England's 4.4 million privately rented homes are in poor condition - and while many private landlords already meet high standards, others fall well short.

The government's consultation asks whether privately rented homes should be kept in a good state of repair with efficient heating, suitable facilities, and safety from severe hazards like significant dampness or fire risks. 

The new standard would be broadly consistent with the existing standard in the social rented sector but includes adjustments to reflect the specific circumstances of the private rented sector, specifically removing the requirement for bathrooms and kitchens to be of a certain age and reflecting existing requirements to meet minimum energy efficiency standards.

The consultation is now open and seeks views on whether such new standards should be introduced and how to enforce the measures. 

Consultation paper: A Decent Homes Standard in the private rented sector.

Landlord legal advice

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Our team advises landlords and agents on all aspects of property law, including tenancy disputes, rent arrears, and possession matters.

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