Private Sector Housing - Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)

Under the Housing Act 2004, Local Authorities have a duty to keep the housing conditions in the area under review. Either as a result of that general review, or for some other reason such as a complaint from a tenant or a neighbour, they can inspect a property if they have reason to think that a health or safety hazard exists there. 

Local Authorities are required to use a 'risk assessment' approach to assessing properties, called the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), to assess all housing condition issues.

The HHSRS method, requires the person inspecting the 'dwelling' (which is taken to include the structure, associated outbuildings, garden, yard and/or other amenity space, including the means of access), to assess and score 29 potential 'Hazards' , which include :

• Dampness, excess cold/heat
• Pollutants e.g. asbestos, carbon monoxide, lead
• Lack of space, security or lighting, or excessive noise
• Poor hygiene, sanitation, water supply
• Accidents - falls, electric shocks, fires, burns, scalds
• Collisions, explosions, structural collapse

Hazards are rated according to how serious they are and the effect they are having, or could have, on the occupants, visitors etc. If a particular hazard is judged to be serious and is classed as a 'Category 1' hazard then the Local Authority have a duty to act. The Local Authority also have discretionary powers to to deal with any lesser 'Category 2' hazards.

In general terms the Local Authority will seek to work with the 'relevant person' who has responsibilty for the building (Owner, Landlord, managing agents etc.) to eliminate or reduce the effect of any significant hazards.

In some situations it may become necessary to use Enforcement to deal with these issues.

You can contact a member of the team if you have any queries on 01730 234313 or alternatively e-mail PShousing@easthants.gov.uk.