Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) surveys replace fitness standards.

As from 6th April 2006 , the Housing Act 2004 has replaced the old ‘fit for human habitation standards’ as contained in Section XVIII – 604 of the Housing Act 1985. Inspections will now be carried out under the new Housing Health and Safety Rating System, abbreviated to HHSRS surveys.

The new system is a ‘risk based’ matrix style approach, which is so much in vogue these days, which results in the grading of the severity of threats to healthy and safety in any dwelling. A dwelling is classified as a house or bungalow, self contained flat, non self contained flat, bed-sit and even a room in a University or college hall of residence including the means of access and shared or common rooms and facilities such as communal kitchens.

Landlords, both in the public sector (Local Authorities) and indeed in the private sector have a responsibility under the decent homes standards to ensure rented accommodation is safe, hygienic and healthy for the enjoyment of its occupants. Local Authorities have powers of enforcement which they can use against Registered Social and other private Landlord’s if required.

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