How does the HHSRS change affect landlords

The housing health and safety rating system, in nearly 20 years, is now in force. Here's what landlords need to know.

The latest changes to the housing health and safety rating system (HHSRS) came into force on 23 June 2026, bringing a significant update to the way housing hazards are assessed in England. While the minimum standards landlords must meet have not changed, the system used by local authorities to identify, assess and categorise hazards has been simplified, making it easier to understand and apply in practice. 

For landlords, the message remains the same: providing a safe and well maintained property is essential. However, now is a good opportunity to review maintenance processes, property inspections and record keeping to help stay compliant and avoid issues further down the line. 

What is the HHSRS?

The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) is the risk based assessment tool used by local authorities to identify hazards within residential properties. It covers a wide range of potential risks, including damp and mould, excess cold, fire safety, electrical hazards and structural issues. 

If serious hazards are identified, councils have powers to take enforcement action to ensure any risks are addressed. 

What Changed on 23 June 2026? Hazard Categories were reduced. One of the biggest changes was a reduction in the number of prescribed hazard categories from 29 to 21. Several existing hazards were combined into broader categories, helping to simplify the assessment process while maintaining the same focus on tenant safety. 

A simpler rating system was introduced

The previous A to J hazard bands were replaced with three clearer categories:

• High
• Medium
• Low

This change was designed to make it easier for landlords, tenants and property professionals to understand the level of risk associated with a hazard. 

Harm categories were renamed

The four classes of harm used within assessments were also updated. They are now known as:

• Extreme
• Severe
• Serious
• Moderate

The assessment framework remains broadly the same, but the revised terminology is intended to be more accessible and easier to interpret. 

Fire hazard definitions were expanded

The updated guidance broadened the definition of fire related hazards to include risks associated with smoke, fumes, explosions and building collapse resulting from fire or explosion. 

What does this mean for landlords?

Although the reforms did not introduce new minimum housing standards, they reinforce the importance of proactively identifying and resolving issues before they become more serious. 

Landlords should consider the following:

• Carrying out regular property inspections.
• Addressing damp and mould concerns promptly.
• Checking that fire and electrical safety measures remain up to date.
• Acting quickly on reported repairs.
• Keeping clear records of inspections, maintenance and remedial work. 

By taking a proactive approach, landlords can help provide a safe living environment for tenants while reducing the likelihood of enforcement action or unexpected repair costs. 

How Your Move can help...

Keeping up with changes in legislation can feel like a full time job. Whether you own a single buy to let property or manage a growing portfolio, Your Move can help you stay on top of evolving requirements and identify potential issues before they become costly problems.

Our experienced lettings teams can provide guidance, support with property management and help you maintain a safe, compliant rental property for your tenants.

Get in touch with your local Your Move branch to find out how we can help.