Are you aware of changes to the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) in England? In this blog explain what they mean for your rental property.

HHSRS is the system councils use to assess whether conditions in a home could harm its occupants. The updated rules apply to inspections beginning on or after 23 June 2026.

The changes simplify how risks are assessed and described. Your responsibility to provide a safe, well-maintained home continues.

What has changed?

• The previous 29 hazard categories have been grouped into 21 broader categories. This does not mean fewer safety issues need to be considered.
• The old A–J risk bands have been replaced with High, Medium and Low. Councils must take action on High risks, known as Category 1 hazards, and can also act on Medium or Low risks.
• Fire assessments expressly cover a wider range of consequences, including smoke, fumes, explosions and structural collapse caused by fire or explosion.

Alongside these changes, councils can impose a civil penalty of up to £7,000 when taking action over a Category 1 hazard, where it would have been reasonably practicable for the responsible person to remove it but they failed to do so. A landlord should therefore not wait for a council notice before addressing a known serious risk.

What should you consider doing?

We recommend reviewing your latest property inspection report and any outstanding maintenance, with particular attention to:

• Damp, mould and heating: Investigate leaks, recurring condensation and mould promptly, addressing the underlying cause. Check that heating and ventilation work effectively, particularly as we approach winter.
• Fire and electrical safety: Check that required alarms are working, escape routes are clear and relevant safety checks are current. Seek specialist advice where there are concerns about fire doors, fire separation or the building’s condition.
• Trips, falls and everyday safety: Look for loose flooring, damaged steps, insecure handrails, unsafe windows and inadequate lighting.
• Repairs and records: Arrange necessary works promptly and retain inspection reports, photographs, contractor findings and evidence of completed repairs. Record any difficulties arranging access and the steps taken to resolve them.

These are useful starting points, rather than an exhaustive checklist. Valid safety certificates remain important, but the overall condition of the property also needs attention.

How Boydens can help

If we manage your property, please contact your property manager to discuss any outstanding recommendations or concerns. Responding promptly to requests for repairs and authorising necessary works helps us protect your tenants and maintain your property.

If you manage the property yourself, we recommend reviewing its condition and maintenance records now, obtaining professional advice where needed.

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss how these changes affect your property. We are here to help you understand your responsibilities and plan any appropriate next steps.