More than one in five privately rented properties in England, approximately 1.027 million homes, may fall short of the updated Decent Homes Standard (DHS), according to new analysis by Inventory Base.
The findings are based on government figures and come as the proposed Renters’ Rights Bill looks to extend the DHS—already a requirement in the social housing sector, to the private rented sector (PRS). This would represent a significant regulatory shift for landlords throughout the East Midlands and across the country.
What is the Decent Homes Standard?
The Decent Homes Standard sets out the minimum conditions that rented properties must meet, including being free from serious hazards, in a reasonable state of repair, and with efficient heating and insulation.
Under the Renters’ Rights Bill, all privately rented properties would need to meet this standard, with phased compliance deadlines currently proposed for 2035 or 2037. The legislation would also align DHS requirements with updated energy efficiency targets by 2030.
Challenges and Concerns for Landlords
Inventory Base has flagged that 21% of private rented homes do not currently meet the proposed standard, compared to 15.8% across all privately occupied homes. The analysis warns that without sufficient support or clarity, landlords may face substantial logistical and financial hurdles in bringing their properties up to standard.
By comparison, the social housing sector—where the DHS has been in force since 2006, still has 10.3% of properties (around 428,000 homes) that fall below the standard. The implication for private landlords is clear: compliance will be a complex, time-intensive, and costly process.
There are growing concerns that, without a robust support structure or clear guidance, some landlords may choose to exit the market rather than invest in upgrades, potentially exacerbating the housing shortage across regions like the East Midlands.
Clarity and Planning Needed
Inventory Base has called on policymakers to provide clear and early guidance to landlords and letting agents, encouraging the use of property inspections and digital tools to identify compliance gaps.
Landlords are urged to begin evaluating their property portfolios now in light of the proposed legislation. Early action can help prevent future costs and disruption, particularly as the industry awaits final details on how the Decent Homes Standard will be enforced within the PRS.
EMPO encourages all members to stay informed as the Renters’ Rights Bill progresses through Parliament. We will continue to provide updates and guidance on how these changes may impact landlords across the East Midlands.