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Expert HHSRS Property Inspections for Landlords & Agents
Safeguarding HMOs, Rental Homes, Communal Spaces, Supported Housing, and Specialist Care Settings
Why Is the Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS) Essential for Landlords and Property Managers?
The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) is the government’s official risk-based assessment tool used to identify and mitigate health hazards and safety risks in residential properties. It plays a crucial role in helping landlords, letting agents, housing associations, and property managers ensure that their properties meet legal housing standards and remain safe for tenants.
Introduced under the Housing Act 2004, the HHSRS applies to all residential dwellings across England and Wales, including HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation), private rentals, council housing, supported living, and care facilities.
Failing to meet HHSRS standards can result in local authority enforcement notices, civil penalties, and prosecution — making early identification and correction of hazards not just advisable but essential.
What Are HHSRS Category 1 and Category 2 Hazards?
The HHSRS classifies housing risks into two main categories based on severity:
Category 1 Hazards – These represent serious and immediate risks to occupants’ health and safety (e.g., severe damp, structural instability, electrical hazards). Local councils must take enforcement action if Category 1 hazards are identified.
Category 2 Hazards – These are less critical but still pose health and safety concerns (e.g., poor lighting, moderate cold). Councils may take action at their discretion.
There are 29 hazard types assessed under HHSRS, ranging from damp and mould, carbon monoxide, and trip hazards, to excess cold, crowding and space, and fire safety risks.
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