Summary of the key points to guide a landlord to achieve Decent Homes HHSRS compliance in plain Englis. You may need to commision a specialist damp surveyor for damp surveys
There are FOUR Aspects to the Decent Homes Standard as listed below.
HHSRS (Point 1) was introduced under the Housing Act 2004 and applies to residential housing provided by social and private landlords.
The HHSRS Legislation requires a landlords to assess 29 potential housing hazards. As is usual with Government Standards, it is overly complicated and requires a degree in statistics to do the assessment!
Below is a summary of the key points to guide a landlord to achieve Decent Homes HHSRS compliance in plain English.
Damp & Mould Growth
Eradicate all forms of damp or condensation. Remove any mould in a property using a strong bleach solution or mould and mildew remover. You may need to commision a specialist damp surveyor.
Excessive Cold or Heat
All dwelling should have an adequate heat source. If this is not the case heating should be installed or improved to the required standard. Ccentral heating would be the norm.
However, cold may be due to ineffective insulation, in which case insulation of lofts and walls should be improved ifi possible.
Also avoid draughts by ensuring any cracks or gaps in walls, especially around doors and windows, are filled adequately using appropriate materials.
Dangerous Chemicals
This includes substances such as asbestos and carbon dioxide. Asbestos surveys should be carried out by a P402 approved surveyor to HSG 264 standards.
Overcrowding
Space in the dwelling should be sufficient for the number of occupants. The general guide would be as below.
Security
Doors and windows need to have adequate locks to ensure safety and security of the occupants.
Noise
Noise can be caused by loud neighbours, proximity to railway, nightclubs etc. If possible, you may need to consider installimg special noise insulation.
Light Levels
Every room in the dwelling should have a window and/or light switch, unless it is a store cupboard or the like.
Other Hazards
You should mitigate the risk of trips, falls, poor hygiene, poor sanitation, electrical, etc
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