Government calls on landlords to upgrade homes ahead of Decent Homes Standard

The government has urged landlords to begin upgrading their properties before the Decent Homes Standard comes into force.

In its Renters’ Rights Act implementation roadmap, the government claims that while the Decent Homes Standard is proposed to come into force in 2035 or 2037, landlords “should commence works earlier”.

The government has announced it will introduce a legal duty on landlords to ensure their properties meet the Decent Homes Standard, and councils will have the power to fine landlords £7,000 if they fail to meet the standard.

Landlords should commence works earlier wherever feasible

The government is currently considering consultation responses and has confirmed it will announce details of the standard and timelines as soon as possible.

As previously reported on Property118, the legislation appears to focus on three key areas when evaluating properties:

• The condition of the premises
• Provisions for tenant safety and comfort
• The ability to maintain an appropriate temperature

In its Renters’ Rights Act roadmap, the government urge landlords to start preparing now.

The guidance says: “While we are proposing a long-term deadline, our expectation is that landlords should commence works earlier wherever feasible, remaining mindful of the effect on tenants.

“As part of the pathway to applying the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector, we will implement the review of the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).”

Local councils will have the power to issue civil penalties of up to £7,000

The government also warn landlords they could face up to a £7,000 fine if they fail the Decent Homes Standard.

The government guidance says: “Landlords who fail to comply with enforcement action can be subject to a civil penalty or criminal prosecution. If such an offence is committed, the tenant or local council can also apply to the First-tier Tribunal for a rent repayment order.

“We will be introducing a legal duty on landlords to ensure their property meets the Decent Homes Standard. For landlords who fail to take reasonably practicable steps to keep their properties free of serious hazards, local councils will also have a new power to issue civil penalties of up to £7,000. This will incentivise all landlords to proactively manage and maintain the safety and decency of their properties.”

The fines come alongside the government’s release of new civil penalty tables under the Renters’ Rights Act, which include a £6,000 fine for discrimination against tenants receiving benefits or those with children during the lettings process.