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The Renters’ Rights Bill introduces a landmark reform by applying the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector for the first time.
Alongside this, Awaab’s Law will impose strict timelines for addressing serious health hazards like damp and mould. Together, these measures aim to ensure that all tenants live in safe, warm, and well-maintained homes, and targets the small minority of landlords who do not properly manage these issues with adequate care.
Key takeaways
What you need to know
What Is the Decent Homes Standard?
Previously only applicable to social housing, the Decent Homes Standard sets out minimum expectations for property condition. The Renters’ Rights Bill will mean this now applies in the private rented sector.
Private landlords must now ensure properties are
Legal requirements for private landlords
Once the Bill is enacted, compliance with the Decent Homes Standard will become a legal obligation. Landlords should proactively assess their properties and carry out any necessary upgrades to avoid penalties.
Local councils will now be able to
Awaab’s Law
Named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who tragically died due to prolonged exposure to mould in his home, this law will apply to both social and private landlords and is designed to prevent avoidable tragedies by enforcing swift action.
Awaab's Law introduces strict timelines for addressing serious hazards
Consequences for non-compliance
Landlords who fail to meet the new legal standards under the Renters’ Rights Bill may face serious consequences. Both the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law come with clear enforcement mechanisms to ensure tenants are protected and properties are properly maintained.
The new rules mean