Decent Homes Standard Review: Phase Two update
The 2020 Social Housing White Paper confirmed a review of the Decent Homes Standard, the first time the Standard has been updated since 2006. The first phase of the review – focused on establishing a case for change to the current standard – concluded last Autumn, with the NHC having played an active role as a core participant in the Review.
In February 2022, the Levelling-Up White Paper announced a new ‘mission’ to halve the number of non-decent rented homes by 2030, with the biggest improvements in the lowest performing areas. This mission encompasses the social rented and private rented sectors – and marks the first time a decent homes standard has been applied to the whole private rented sector.
Since the White Paper was published, the NHC has engaged with officials at DLUHC working on both the private and social rented elements of this work. It’s clear that ministers want the same standard to apply to both sectors, and are keen to progress the review. We’ve also been encouraged that officials recognise that some of the lowest performing private rented sector stock is located in the North and Midlands – presenting a potential opportunity to progress the improvement or regeneration of these homes, which is a long-standing priority for many of the NHC’s local authority members.
Phase 2 of the review, focused on the development of a new Standard, has now begun, with the Sounding Board the NHC sits on having met three times in April. The intention is to develop a new standard at pace, and for there to be a formal consultation on this proposed standard – possibly as soon as this Summer.
The same standard is intended to apply to the social and private rented sectors. Perhaps reflecting this, potential new regulatory standards being considered for inclusion in the revised Standard are narrower than previously thought, and largely focused on safety and security. The Thermal Comfort Criterion, which Phase One identified as being significantly outdated, is being considered separately and it seems likely this will be consulted on in parallel with the new DHS. This is in the context of a precious consultation in raising Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards in the PRS to EPC C, and a pledge to consult on an EPC C regulatory standard in the social rented sector.
The Department are also considering the use of guidance and best practice on issues identified in Part 1 of the review, such as green spaces, climate adaptation, digital connectivity, adaptations, and resident/tenant engagement on planned maintenance.
The NHC’s Private Rented Sector Network will be discussing the application of a Decent Homes Standard to the PRS at their meeting on May 17th, where we’ll be joined by officials from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. NHC members can attend the network at no charge – book your place using MyNHC.
Those interested in the Decent Homes Review can join the NHC’s mailing list for updates – email Kristina.Dawson@northern-consortium.org.uk to join the list.
The NHC has submitted written comments to the Department on the areas being considered for inclusion in the new Standard. We will also be responding to the formal consultation in due course. For any questions about the development of the new Standard, or if you would like the NHC to speak to your team or tenants about the progress of the review, please contact Brian.Robson@northern-consortium.org.uk
