These are intended to replace the old fitness standard for properties. However, given their complexity, many will still refer to the old standards. The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) is intended to apply across all residential premises and is concerned with avoiding, or at the very least, minimising potential hazards (it doesn’t set out minimum standards).

The local housing authority has to satisfy itself that there are no category 1 hazards, the most severe hazards, in licensable HMOs within 5 years of receiving a licence application.  This may require them to carry out an HHSRS inspection on a property.  They may choose to make this inspection when deciding whether to grant a licence or they may decide to inspect at a later date.

Under HHSRS, a landlord may have to carry out work to remedy any identified hazards.  The sort of work that needs to be carried out and the severity of the enforcement measures will vary depending on how serious the problem is.  However, the local housing authority cannot put conditions on a licence requiring work to be done on the property under the HHSRS.