Private Sector Housing

Private sector housing enforcement policy

Our team aim to improve housing conditions within the private rented sector and bring properties up to standard. We have a responsibility to deal with housing that may be dangerous for the occupiers in the property.

The type of enforcement action we decide is considered on a case by case basis and will vary according to the law.

Private Sector Housing enforcement policy (PDF)

Housing health and safety rating system

The Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS) is a method for assessing health and safety risks in residential properties. It replaces the fitness standard that was used under the Housing Act 1985.

Any residential premises, including its structure, access areas, yard, gardens and outbuildings can be assessed.

How is a property assessed under HHSRS?

The inspector will identify hazards that are likely to lead to harm whilst the property is in use, and will then assess the seriousness of harm that the hazard may cause.

Action we may take:

serve an improvement notice requiring essential repairs or improvements to reduce or remove the hazard
make a prohibition order, closing all or part of a building or restricting the number of occupiers to reduce or remove a hazard
take emergency action to deal with any imminent risk to the occupiers from a severe hazard
serve a Hazard Awareness notice that informs that a hazard is present

Further HHSRS guidance

Report a hazard within your home

What problems can the Private Sector Housing Team assist with?

Identifying hazards under the Housing Health and Rating System brining about improvements and repairs to remove those hazards
Urgent action to restore heating, hot water or to make dangerous electrical systems safe
Dampness from roof leaks, pipe leaks, rising damp, condensation and mould and dry rot infestations and improving heating systems or ventilation
Homes which are excessively cold due to poor insulation and heating that is inefficient and unaffordable
Some types of disrepair where a there is a risk to health and safety as the result of a hazard. Rotten or broken windows, bathrooms, kitchens and toilets that are inadequate or in severe disrepair
Broken and blocked drainage
Infestations of rats, mice, cockroaches, fleas and bedbugs
Disconnection of gas, water or electricity
Fire safety

If you are living in a privately rented home and would like to report a hazard under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System please submit an enquiry below or call us on 020 7974 4444

Report a hazard

Private Sector Housing

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