Renters’ Rights Essentials – Preparing for the new Decent Homes Standard
November 20, 2025
The Decent Homes Standard currently sets out the minimum living conditions for tenants living in social housing. As part of the Renters’ Rights Act, it will be introduced into the private rented sector.
Letting agents face a pivotal role in ensuring smooth transitions for both landlords and tenants so a proactive approach can keep all parties satisfied while maintaining compliance.
What is the Decent Homes Standard?
The Decent Homes Standard is a set of criteria that landlords will have to follow to ensure that the properties they rent out are in good, liveable condition in order to enhance living conditions for tenants.
There are four main aspects of the criteria which landlords will have to ensure their properties meet:
Serious hazards
A property must meet the minimum set out in the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), and any category 1 hazards must be dealt with for the property to be considered ‘decent’. These include serious damp and mould issues, unsafe electrical issues, structural instability and an absence of heating.
Reasonable state of repair
A property is likely to fail to be ‘decent’ if any of walls, windows, doors, chimneys, electrics, boilers or heating systems are considered old and in need of major repair or replacing.
Modern facilities
A home needs to have at least four of:
- A kitchen which is 20 years old or less
- A kitchen with adequate space
- A bathroom which is 30 years old or less
- An appropriately located bathroom
- Adequate noise insulation
- Adequate size and layout of common areas
Heating and insulation
A reasonable amount of thermal comfort must be provided. This means that there should be effective insulation and a fixed heating system.
How to Prepare
Conduct comprehensive property audits
Start with a detailed inspection of each property under your management. Identify any areas that fall short of the new standards, such as issues with damp, inadequate heating, or poor insulation. Use a standardized checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Educate your team
Ensure your team is well-versed in the new requirements. Training sessions and updates on the Decent Homes Standard will equip your staff to handle inquiries confidently and make informed decisions.
Work with trusted contractors
Establish relationships with reliable contractors who can swiftly address any issues identified during property audits. Having a network of skilled professionals ensures that necessary upgrades are completed efficiently and to a high standard.
Keeping landlords and tenants happy
Communicate clearly and regularly
Keep landlords informed about the necessary changes and their benefits and explain the new standards and the importance of compliance. For tenants, provide updates on improvements and timelines to enhance their living conditions.
Offer financial planning advice
Help landlords understand the financial implications of the required upgrades and explore potential funding options. Advising on budgeting and planning can alleviate concerns and encourage timely compliance.
Foster a collaborative environment
Encourage open communication between landlords and tenants. Creating a collaborative atmosphere will help address concerns promptly and build trust.
Highlight the Benefits
Emphasize the advantages of meeting the new standards, such as increased property value, tenant satisfaction, and reduced vacancy rates. Well-maintained properties are more attractive to potential tenants, ensuring long-term profitability for landlords.
Keeping tenants happy will also become more important when periodic tenancies come in and tenants can leave at any point with two months notice.
FAQs
What is the Decent Homes Standard under the Renters’ Rights Act?
The Decent Homes Standard mandates that rented properties meet certain criteria to ensure they are safe, warm, and in a good state of repair. It will be introduced to the PRS as part of the Renters’ Rights Act.
How soon do landlords need to comply with the new standards?
The new rules set out in the Renters’ Rights Act are being phased in, while it hasn’t been announced when these standards will start to be enforced, agents and landlords should be given suitable notice to be able to make any improvements necessary.
What kind of property issues should be prioritized?
Focus on addressing damp, inadequate heating, insulation, and any structural repairs that could affect a tenant’s health and safety.
How can I ensure my team is prepared for these changes?
Regular training and updates on the Renters’ Rights Act and Decent Homes Standard will ensure your team is knowledgeable and ready to assist landlords and tenants.
