What Is the Decent Homes Standard?
Monday 7th of July 2025
The Decent Homes Standard (DHS) is a set of minimum quality rules for UK social housing introduced in 2006. To be considered “decent,” a home must meet four simple criteria:
- Statutory minimum standard – no serious hazards (e.g., structural risks, fire dangers)
- Reasonable repair – key features (roof, windows, heating) are in good condition
- Modern facilities and services – e.g., proper kitchen and bathroom
- Thermal comfort – sufficient insulation and heating (linked to energy standards)
Why It’s Being Updated in 2025
- The DHS hasn’t been reviewed since 2006, and the housing landscape has changed significantly.
- Around 10% of social homes and 21% of private rented homes currently fail to meet the standard
- Major issues remain unaddressed, like damp and mould, safety measures (e.g., window restrictors), and thermal comfort
- The government wants a single, updated standard for both social and private rented housing
The Consultation: What They Want to Know
Open: 2nd July 2025
Closes: 10th September 2025 at 11:45pm
They’re asking for your views on:
1. Scope & Coverage
- Should the DHS apply to social homes, private rentals, or both?
2. Updated Criteria
Should the standard include:
- Statutory safety (HHSRS)
- Repairs for key features (without old-age limits)
- Modern facilities
- Protection from damp & mould
- Thermal comfort and energy efficiency
- Additional measures (e.g., floor coverings, home security)
3. Timings & Enforcement
- New standards may apply by 2035–2037 in private rentals, and around same in social housing
- Questions on enforcement powers (e.g., councils with £40k fines)
4. Best Practice Guidance
- Should there be optional advice to landlords on going beyond the minimum?
5. Link with Energy Rules
- The DHS will include Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), tying into the EPC C plan
Why You Should Respond
- You can influence what makes a home “decent.”
- Help decide where and when the rules apply, especially in the private rental market.
- Shape the support and flexibility provided for landlords to meet standards.
- Ensure tenants benefit from healthier, safer, more energy-efficient homes.
How to Take Part
1. Visit the GOV.UK consultation page for DHS improvements.
2. Look at the Interim Impact Assessment (PDF, ~71 pages).
3. Answer the online questionnaire via Citizen Space.
4. Respond as an individual, group, landlord, or professional via email.
What Happens Next
- Responses reviewed after 10th September 2025
- Revised final DHS published and applied by 2035–2037 (likely phased in)
- Local authorities and the Regulator of Social Housing enforce new standards
- Expected to include new landlord training and competence rules in line with the 2023 Social Housing (Regulation) Act
Final Word
The Decent Homes Standard is moving from a social housing benchmark to a nationwide quality guarantee for all rented homes. This consultation is a rare chance to define what “home” should feel like—safe, warm, well-kept, and healthy.
Respond by 10th September 2025
Help ensure every home is truly decent.
Tpas have been working hard to lobby for a positive change and we will continue to do so with these new proposals. To that extent we have put together a number of events free to our members where we can brief you on what these proposals mean and gather your opinions.
Join us on Tuesday 29th Jul 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm for this session.
Your Voice Matters: Policy Consultation - Decent Homes Consultation