Property inspections should consider potential harm, not just broken items, according to recent advice. The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) underwent significant changes on 23 June 2026, reducing the number of hazards from 29 to 21.
While landlords are not expected to become HHSRS assessors, they are responsible for ensuring their properties are free from Category 1 hazards. A routine inspection is not a formal HHSRS assessment, but the system offers a new perspective for evaluating properties.
Instead of only looking for defects like a leaking tap or a broken window, landlords are advised to consider if anything could cause harm. This approach may highlight issues previously overlooked, such as an insecure handrail on a staircase, a slippery bathroom floor, or a low window sill that could pose a risk to a child.
Other considerations include the underlying cause of damp and mould, the amount of natural light in a room, and unseen risks like indoor air pollutants. If something appears unusual or a tenant reports a recurring problem, further investigation by a competent professional may be necessary.