Private sector housing

Private sector housing must be in good repair and meet minimum standards.

We do this through education, advice, promotion and enforcement of the following areas:

The Government's Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), evaluates the potential risks to health and safety from any deficiencies identified in homes.

A guide to HHSRS, which is targeted at landlords, agents and property related professionals, can be downloaded from the link on the right of this page.

Fire risk assessments in common parts of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)

The responsible person for a house in multiple occupation - i.e. the landlord, manager or licence holder - must carry out a fire risk assessment and minimise the risk of fire in the common parts of the building.

Local authorities and fire and rescue services both have enforcement duties for HMOs.

Further information

The National Landlords Association (NLA) helps landlords to understand requirements under the housing legislation. Landlords can get more detailed help on specific issues by joining the NLA.

For more help and advice on private sector housing contact us using our online form or call 01993 861060.