What is the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)? 

The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) can be used to identify any potential hazards that may impact privately rented properties. The system outlines 29 hazards including damp, mould, and carbon monoxide etc. Property owners and estate agents can use the HHSRS to ensure that their property is suitable for ‘human habitation’ at the start and during the tenancy.  

How is the HHSRS currently used in the social housing sector? 

The Decent Homes Standard has also introduced the use of the HHSRS in the social housing sector. The standard states that “to be decent, a dwelling should be free from category 1 hazards”, which are listed in the HHSRS. 

What is new in the HHSRS? 

The HHSRS has recently been reviewed and the change that has been put forward involves simplifying the current health and safety assessment process.  

Some of the changes would include: 

• Reducing the number of hazards to assess to 21 
• Use descriptions such as “extreme” or “moderate” as an easier way to band results 
• Provide a straightforward checklist to make the assessment of serious hazards easier; e.g., “stairs must be safe, secure, in sound condition, free of defects and projections, well maintained” 
• Publishing new enforcement guidance 

The information in this post is valid to the best of our knowledge on the date of posting. It is advised that you seek independent advice based on your individual circumstances. 

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