The UK government is cracking down on irresponsible landlords with a new set of health and safety rules, introducing hefty fines for those who fail to meet the updated standards. From 23 June, landlords in England and Wales could face £7,000 on-the-spot penalties for each hazard identified in their properties, rising to up to £40,000 if left unaddressed.
The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), used by local authorities to assess health risks, is being overhauled. The new rules categorise hazards as high (Category 1) or medium/low risk (Category 2), with councils taking enforcement action for the former. While the core list of hazards remains unchanged, some categories are merging – 'Falls on the Level' now includes general trip hazards and 'Fire and Explosions' covers exposure to uncontrolled fire and smoke.
Guidance from the government states that councils can impose a £7,000 fine per Category 1 hazard or a single penalty for multiple breaches. The level of fines will be determined on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as how long the landlord has been aware of the hazard and steps taken to address it.
The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) is advising its members to conduct regular property inspections to ensure homes remain safe. While landlords complying with existing HHSRS guidance do not need to make significant changes, documenting safety checks and carrying out regular inspections are crucial in demonstrating a proactive approach to health and safety.