Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)

The Housing Act 2004 is a key piece of legislation aimed at creating better housing standards in the private sector. This new Act came into force in April 2006 and introduces the HHSRS, through which powers are available to deal with a range of housing disrepair issues.  This is a  risk assessment system which assesses housing conditions and it focuses on the hazards that are most likely to effect the occupier or potential occupier from the condition of the property.
The risk assessment looks at the likelihood of an incident arising from the condition of the property and the likely harmful outcome. For example, how likely is a fire to break out, what will happen if one does? And the effect that a defect has on the occupier.
The assessment will show the presence of any serious (Category 1) hazards and other less serious (Category 2) hazards.

Properties will be inspected and assessed by a housing renewal officer who will then decide on any necessary action to be taken, making reference to the HHSRS 'Operating Guidance' and 'Enforcement Guidance'.

The hazards which have to be assessed are as follows:

• Damp/mould growth 

• Radiation 

• Noise 

• Fire

• Excess heat/cold 

• Un-combusted fuel gas 

• Hygiene Hot surfaces

• Asbestos 

• Volatile Organic Compounds

•  Food safety Entrapment

• Biocides 

• Crowding & space 

• Water supply 

• Explosions

• Carbon monoxide

• Intruders

• Falls  

• Ergonomics

• Lead 

• Lighting 

• Electrical 

• Structural

Some frequently asked questions

Where can I get more information on the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)?

For more information on how the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) is enforced and what the penalties are, click on the link for the Housing Health and Safety Rating System enforcement guide or contact the Housing Renewal Team.