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HHSRS 2026
The revised HHSRS framework, in force from 23 June 2026, which reduced the assessed hazards from 29 to 21 and replaced the A to J banding with High, Medium and Low.
Read guidanceHHSRS
The risk-based framework local authorities in England use to assess housing hazards including damp and mould, excess cold, fire, electrical and structural risks. Revised from 23 June 2026, when the assessed hazards reduced from 29 to 21 and the A to J banding was replaced with High, Medium and Low.
Read guidanceAwaab's Law
Statutory timescales for landlords to investigate and remedy serious housing hazards. Originally introduced for social housing, now extended to the private rented sector by the Renters' Rights Act 2024 on a phased commencement.
Read guidanceEPC & MEES
EPCs rate a property's energy efficiency. MEES sets the minimum rating a property must hold to be legally let, with the 2030 EPC C standard on the horizon.
Read guidanceGas Safety
Annual Gas Safe checks of gas appliances, flues and pipework. The CP12 record is one of the most common compliance documents landlords are asked for.
Read guidanceElectrical Safety & EICRs
Landlords must keep the fixed electrical installation safe through periodic EICR inspections, typically at least every five years.
Read guidanceSmoke & CO Alarms
Working alarm requirements in privately rented homes, including the updated rules that apply across England.
Read guidanceDamp & Mould
A recognised HHSRS hazard and a top priority for tenant safety following Awaab's Law and wider Government policy direction.
Read guidanceFire Safety
Fire is one of the highest impact HHSRS hazards. Duties vary between standard lets, HMOs and properties with common areas.
Read guidanceHMO Compliance
HMOs carry tighter compliance duties around licensing, amenities, fire safety, room sizes and management standards.
Read guidanceSelective Licensing
Local authorities can designate areas where most private rented properties need a licence, regardless of HMO status.
Read guidanceDecent Homes Standard
A condition standard long applied to social housing, extended to the private rented sector by the Renters' Rights Act 2024 through phased commencement.
Read guidanceRenters' Rights
The most significant reform of the private rented sector in a generation. Ends Section 21 no-fault evictions, introduces a Private Rented Sector Database, extends the Decent Homes Standard to PRS and applies Awaab's Law style timescales to private landlords.
Read guidanceConsumer Unit Upgrades
Plain-English guidance on why EICRs sometimes flag an older consumer unit (fuse board) for upgrade, what RCD protection means and how landlords can plan and budget the work.
Read guidancePRS Database
A national register of private landlords and rented properties introduced by the Renters' Rights Act. Regional rollout begins from late 2026, with mandatory registration of the landlord and each property and an annual fee.
Read guidance
Licensing and accreditation across the region is covered separately in landlord licensing and accreditation in the North East.
General awareness only
Knowledge Centre content is published for general awareness and education. It is not legal advice and does not replace formal advice from a solicitor, surveyor or your local authority. Sunderland Landlord Compliance is a compliance coordination service and does not act as a legal adviser, local authority, enforcement body or housing inspector.