HHSRS Changes Now in Force – Is Your Rental Property Compliant?
The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) has undergone significant reform, introducing one of the biggest changes to housing safety standards in England for many years.
From 23 June 2026, landlords must understand the revised assessment process, new hazard categories and updated enforcement powers available to local authorities. Failure to identify and address serious hazards could result in formal enforcement action, improvement notices, prohibition orders and civil penalties of up to £7,000 where landlords fail to remedy poor housing conditions.
What Is the HHSRS?
The Housing Health and Safety Rating System is the legal framework used by local authorities to assess whether residential properties are safe for occupation. Inspectors assess hazards that may affect the health or safety of occupiers, including risks relating to:
- damp and mould
- excess cold and heat
- fire safety
- electrical hazards
- structural defects
- falls
- indoor air quality
- overcrowding
- water supply and sanitation
Why These Changes Matter for Landlords
The reforms form part of the wider Renters' Rights Act programme designed to improve standards across the private rented sector. Landlords are expected to take a proactive approach by:
- carrying out regular inspections
- responding promptly to repair requests
- keeping comprehensive maintenance records
- completing all required statutory safety checks
- addressing hazards before they become serious
New Enforcement Powers
Where serious hazards are identified, local authorities have a range of enforcement options, including Improvement Notices and Prohibition Orders. In the most serious cases, landlords may also face civil penalties of up to £7,000.
Understanding how hazards are assessed can help landlords identify potential issues before enforcement action becomes necessary. Preventative property management is now more important than ever.
To help landlords understand the new requirements, we have produced two practical resources:
The contents of this Newsletter are for reference purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Independent legal advice should be sought in relation to any specific legal matter.