Tenants, landlords, letting agents, industry bodies and other individuals and organisations operating in the PRS are encouraged to share their views and feedback via an online survey, or send their hard copy responses through post.

The survey comprises a series of questions regarding the enforcement of the standard to the PRS — including the allocation of power and duties to local councils to tackle poor property conditions and prompt action from landlords who do not fulfil their responsibilities, as well as the introduction of a legal duty on landlords to ensure their property meets the Decent Homes Standard.

Under the proposed new standard, local councils would additionally be responsible for the enforcement of wider standards, such as energy efficiency and electrical safety.

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In addition, the government proposes to extend the grounds for rent repayment orders, requiring landlords to repay rent to the tenant(s) in situations where they have not complied with the Decent Homes Standard.

The consultation will last for six weeks, from 2nd September to 14th October 2022.

The government first highlighted its commitment to introduce a legally binding standard to the PRS in its ‘A fairer private rented sector’ white paper, published in June this year.

In response to the new proposals and consultation, Propertymark emphasised the need for resources for local council to carry out enforcement actions.

“Ministers are already listening to us by acknowledging the Decent Homes Standard for social housing cannot be directly replicated in the more diverse privately rented market,” said Timothy Douglas, head of policy and campaigns at Propertymark.

“Giving more enforcement powers to local authorities must come with adequate funding to ensure the new standards can be actively assessed.

“This is essential of achieving the aim of removing inadequate properties from the private rental market, rather than placing more regulatory burden on good landlords without appropriate time and support to fully comply."