Housing Act 2004

 

• Private Landlords Responsibilities

The Housing Act 2004 came into force on 6 April 2006, introducing a new definition for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs).  The Act requires the licensing of high risk HMOs and provides a new system for the assessment of housing conditions known as the Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS).

Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS)

The HHSRS provides an assessment as to the extent to which a house is free from hazards to health and safety. The HHSRS places the emphasis on the occupant rather than the building. There are 29 hazards to be assessed including:-

• Freedom from dampness
• Excessive cold
• Falls on the level ie, tripping hazards
• Entry by intruders
• Food safety
• Electrical safety
• Carbon monoxide

Enforcement action can be taken by the Council to ensure that landlords eliminate and/or minimise such hazards.

Information is available at the following:

• www.communities.gov.uk (this is an external hyperlink)

• Fareham Borough Council - Houses in Multiple Occupation

For further information or advice on the above please contact us at regulatory@fareham.gov.uk or telephone on 01329 236100.