If you’re a landlord or letting agent, you’ll probably agree that keeping up with the constant stream of housing legislation has become almost a full-time job in itself. Whether we support the direction of travel or not, the private rented sector is becoming increasingly regulated and anyone involved in letting or managing property has little choice but to keep up with the changing legal landscape.

The latest change came into effect on 23 June 2026, when the Government introduced the first major review of the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) since it came into force in England 20 years ago. Whilst the purpose of HHSRS remains the same, the guidance has been completely rewritten, the number of hazards reduced, the presentation of the assessment modernised and new guidance published for local authorities, landlords, letting agents and tenants.

Whilst many landlords have understandably focused on the Renters’ Rights Act, this is another important reform that shouldn’t be overlooked. HHSRS remains the principal system local authorities use when assessing housing conditions and deciding whether enforcement action is necessary.

What is HHSRS?
HHSRS was introduced to assess whether a property contains hazards that could affect the health, safety or wellbeing of the people living there or visiting the property. Unlike many areas of housing legislation, it isn’t simply a checklist of legal requirements. Instead, it is a risk assessment that considers both the likelihood of harm occurring and the severity of that harm. It also looks at the property as a whole. Whilst an inspection may begin because of a complaint about damp and mould, a local authority officer is likely to assess the entire property, including external areas, shared access, gardens and other parts of the premises where appropriate.