There have been two very serious incidents in recent years – the tragic death of Awaab Ishak in a mould-ridden home, and Grenfell Tower, where 72 people lost their lives, including 18 children. It remains one of the deadliest residential fires in modern UK history.

What both events highlight is something we feel strongly about – residents were not listened to. Although these homes were in the social housing sector, the concerns and risks could apply anywhere. So, to make sure that every housing provider follows the same expectations, the Government is now working to modernise the Decent Homes Standard and extend it to the Private Rented Sector (PRS).

You’ll likely see a lot of scary headlines in the coming weeks, predicting chaos and added pressure on owners, so we thought it was a good time to offer a bit of  balance.

If you’re reading this and you already work with us, or joined one of our webinars, you’ll know there’s nothing to panic about as you already provide a decent home. But you may be wondering: what exactly is changing, and how will it affect me as an owner, or my property manager?

So, what is the Government actually doing?

Following a formal consultation that began in July 2025, the Government has confirmed its intention to introduce a Decent Homes Standard for the PRS.

The proposals include:

• Setting clear, minimum standards that all rented homes must meet.
• Homes must be free from serious hazards – Category 1 hazards will be prosecuted.
• Better thermal comfort and insulation (with EPC C still targeted by 2030)
• The age rule on kitchens and bathrooms is being scrapped. No more replacing units just because they hit a certain age – now it’s about whether they’re still fit for purpose.
• Carpets or floor coverings will need to be in place at the start of each tenancy
• Window restrictors may become mandatory in upper floor properties
• New window and door installations must meet improved security standards
• Giving local councils stronger enforcement powers through the upcoming Renters’ Reform Bill, with fines staying in local budgets
• Aligning with broader reforms in energy efficiency and housing safety

For context, the English Housing Survey revealed:

• Around 21% of PRS homes are currently “non-decent”
• These homes cost the NHS over £355 million a year in treating health conditions made worse by poor housing
• The wider social cost is estimated at over £18 billion
• And it’s clear that existing legislation, like the HHSRS, hasn’t been enough to protect residents from serious harm

What is a Category 1 hazard?

These are the most serious dangers in a home and are things that can cause severe harm to health or safety. Under the HHSRS, these include:

• Severe damp or mould
• Excess cold from poor heating or insulation
• Risk of fire from faulty wiring or no fire doors
• Dangerous stairs or flooring
• Carbon monoxide exposure
• Unsafe electrical wiring
• Poor security or broken locks
• Structural issues like collapsing ceilings

Under Awaab’s Law (starting October 2025 for social housing), these hazards must be fixed urgently and once the Renters’ Reform Bill passes, the same rules will apply to private rented homes.

What about fines?

With the Decent Homes Standard being enforced through the Renters’ Reform Bill, local authorities will have more direct powers to act when a property fails to meet the new requirements.

This means:

• Councils can inspect properties without needing a resident complaint
• They can issue improvement notices or financial penalties directly
• If an owner doesn’t comply with enforcement action, councils can issue civil penalties of up to £40,000 per breach and there will be no need to go to court

And importantly:

• Local councils will keep 100% of the fines, making enforcement far more likely
• Repeat or serious offenders can face rent repayment orders, banning orders, or be added to the Rogue Landlord Register

So, while professional owners like you have nothing to worry about, those who ignore standards and fail to act could face serious financial consequences.

Timeline for implementation

• October 2025 – Awaab’s Law takes effect for social housing
• Expected Autumn 2025 – Once the Renters’ Reform Bill is passed, enforcement begins in the PRS
• 2035–2037 – Full rollout of the Decent Homes Standard across all tenures, giving time to plan upgrades

What do you need to do now?

If you work with us already you’re likely already compliant.

We carry out property inspections, risk assessments, and guide all our owners on safety, energy and resident wellbeing. We’re also already completing mould risk assessments, reviewing ventilation, and helping owners proactively address concerns before they become costly.

About EPCs…

The only slight unknown is around EPC regulations, which are quietly being updated behind the scenes. Here’s the good news: The method used to calculate EPC ratings has changed. For example, if you had an EPC done in 2023, an air source heat pump might have lowered your rating due to perceived running costs.

But now? It’s treated as a benefit. Low-carbon tech is finally being recognised, which means investing in the right heating can now improve your score.

Once more detail is available on grants or upgrade requirements, we’ll be on hand to guide you through everything step by step.

Not working with us yet?

Why not let us conduct a full property inspection to benchmark your current compliance?

We’ll show you:

• What you’re already doing well
• Where there may be future risks
• What to prioritise next – and when

Our approach is always personal, expert and honourable – and we’ll tailor everything to your property, your budget, and your long-term goals.

Final thoughts

For us, the reformed Decent Homes Standard is a positive step forward. It will help level the playing field – so owners who cut corners or ignore residents will find it harder to operate. And that leaves space for professional, responsible owners like you to thrive – with better homes, better residents, and less risk.

If you’d like to chat through your property’s position or book a compliance review, just give us a call or drop us a message.

Let’s make the future of renting better – together