Decent Homes Standard
What Is the Decent Homes Standard?
The Decent Homes Standard sets out the minimum standard that rented homes should meet.
Originally introduced for social housing, the Renters’ Rights Act extends the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector in England, helping to ensure that every tenant has the right to live in a safe, secure and well-maintained home.
The aim is to improve housing conditions by requiring landlords to address serious hazards and keep their properties in a reasonable state of repair.
For tenants, this means stronger protections against unsafe and substandard housing.
What Makes a Home 'Decent'?
To meet the Decent Homes Standard, a property should:
- be free from serious health and safety hazards
- be in a reasonable state of repair
- have reasonably modern facilities and services
- provide a reasonable degree of thermal comfort, including effective heating and insulation
The exact requirements are set out in legislation and supporting guidance, but the overall aim is simple: tenants should be able to live in homes that are safe, healthy and fit for everyday living.
What Types of Problems Could Mean a Property Falls Below the Standard?
Every property is different, but examples of issues that may indicate a home isn’t meeting the expected standard include:
- persistent damp or mould
- serious leaks or water ingress
- dangerous electrical installations
- unsafe gas appliances
- structural problems
- faulty heating or hot water systems
- broken windows or insecure external doors
- significant pest infestations
- inadequate ventilation
- excessive cold caused by poor insulation or defective heating
Not every repair issue will automatically mean a property fails the Decent Homes Standard, but serious or ongoing problems should never be ignored.
What Are My Landlord's Responsibilities?
Landlords are responsible for maintaining their property and dealing with repairs that fall within their legal obligations.
This includes taking reasonable steps to:
- keep the structure and exterior in good repair
- maintain essential services such as heating, hot water and sanitation
- investigate reports of disrepair
- carry out repairs within a reasonable timeframe
- ensure the property remains safe throughout the tenancy
Tenants also have responsibilities, such as reporting problems promptly and allowing reasonable access for repairs when appropriate.
What Should I Do If My Home Isn't Safe?
If you believe your home is unsafe or in poor condition:
- Report the issue to your landlord as soon as possible.
- Keep copies of emails, letters or messages.
- Take photographs or videos where appropriate.
- Keep a record of when the problem started and how it has affected you.
- If your landlord doesn’t take reasonable action, contact your local council’s private housing team for advice.
Local authorities have powers to inspect rented properties and require landlords to deal with serious hazards where the law allows.
Will the Decent Homes Standard Replace Existing Repair Laws?
No.
The Decent Homes Standard works alongside existing legal responsibilities.
Landlords must still comply with laws covering:
- repairs
- gas safety
- electrical safety
- smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- fitness for human habitation
- protection from serious housing hazards
The new standard strengthens expectations across the private rented sector rather than replacing existing legislation.
Common Misunderstandings
“Every Minor Defect Means My Home Fails the Standard”
Not necessarily.
Small cosmetic issues won’t usually mean a property falls below the Decent Homes Standard.
The focus is on safety, health and whether the home provides a reasonable standard of accommodation.
“Landlords Must Renovate Every Older Property”
No.
Older homes don’t have to be brand new.
The law requires properties to meet an acceptable standard of safety and repair, regardless of their age.
“I Can Stop Paying Rent If Repairs Aren’t Done”
No.
You should continue paying your rent unless you’ve received specific legal advice telling you otherwise.
Stopping rent payments without following the proper legal process could put your tenancy at risk.
“My Landlord Is Responsible for Damage I’ve Caused”
Not usually.
Landlords are responsible for repairs they’re legally required to carry out, while tenants remain responsible for damage caused deliberately or through negligence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Every Private Rental Have to Meet the Decent Homes Standard?
Yes.
The aim of the Renters’ Rights Act is for all private rented homes to meet the required minimum standard.
Does This Mean My Landlord Has to Decorate My Home?
No.
The standard isn’t about cosmetic improvements.
It’s about ensuring homes are safe, healthy and properly maintained.
What If My Landlord Ignores Serious Repairs?
Start by reporting the issue in writing.
If the problem isn’t resolved, you may wish to contact your local council, which has powers to investigate serious housing conditions.
Does Damp and Mould Count?
It can.
Persistent damp and mould may indicate that a property isn’t being maintained to an acceptable standard and should always be reported.
Can My Landlord Evict Me for Reporting Repairs?
The Renters’ Rights Act abolished Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, giving tenants greater confidence to report legitimate repair issues without fearing they could automatically lose their home.
Key Takeaways
- The Decent Homes Standard now applies to the private rented sector.
- Rental properties should be safe, well maintained and free from serious hazards.
- Landlords remain responsible for carrying out repairs they're legally required to complete.
- Tenants should report repair issues promptly and keep records of all communication.
- Local councils can investigate serious housing conditions and take enforcement action where necessary.
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