Landlords urged to prepare for Decent Homes Standard as stricter enforcement looms

A letting agency is urging landlords to prepare for the Decent Homes Standard by carrying out regular inspections and reviewing EPC ratings.

Leaders Roman Group (LRG) warns landlords that there will be greater enforcement when the rules come into effect, with civil penalties of £7,000 and possible prosecution.

LRG also says tenants will gain stronger legal rights under the Decent Homes Standard.

Compliance deadlines set for 2035 or 2037

The government has been vague about what the Decent Homes Standard will look like in practice, with rumours suggesting local authorities may have discretion in applying the new rules.

Previously, an article on Property118 suggests 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

The Decent Homes Standard (DHS), which is part of the Renters’ Rights Bill, aims to apply these standards to private rented homes, with compliance deadlines set for 2035 or 2037.

Costs involved in upgrading properties to meet the new requirements

Allison Thompson, national lettings managing director, at LRG warns the Decent Homes Standard could force landlords to upgrade their properties.

She warns: “There may be costs involved in upgrading properties to meet the new requirements. For some, that could include replacing outdated heating systems, improving insulation or addressing long-standing structural issues.

“There will also be greater scrutiny and stronger enforcement. Local councils will be able to issue civil penalties of up to £7,000 for serious breaches, without needing to go to court. If landlords ignore these penalties or fail to act within the legal timeframe, they may be prosecuted.”

Tenants will gain stronger legal rights

Ms Thompson adds under the Decent Homes Standard, tenants will gain more rights and warns landlords who fail to meet the new rules will face serious financial consequences.

She said: “Tenants will gain stronger legal rights and greater protection. The new standard means every renter should be able to expect a safe, well-maintained and energy-efficient home.

“Issues such as damp, mould, poor insulation, heating faults and electrical hazards will need to be addressed within a clear legal timeframe. The bill is designed to provide tenants with a more consistent standard of living and to ensure that serious problems are investigated and resolved without delay.

“Where a landlord fails to meet the required standard, tenants will be able to report the issue to the local council, which can issue penalties, apply to the First-Tier Tribunal for a rent repayment order, or take their landlord to court for breach of contract.

“Tenants may also be awarded a rent refund of up to 24 months, doubling the current limit.”

Steps to prepare

Whilst the Decent Homes Standard has not yet come into force, LRG is urging landlords to get ahead of the curve and start taking steps to prepare.

The letting agency has made a list of what landlords need to do to prepare for the new rules:

• Carry out regular property inspections at least once every six to 12 months
• Pay close attention to common issues such as damp, heating and ventilation
• Review EPC ratings and begin planning for energy efficiency improvements
• Ensure all gas, electrical and fire safety certificates are in place
• Keep clear records of maintenance and repairs
• Work with a qualified letting agent to stay informed on upcoming changes