Housing standards - privately rented houses and HMO's

The Environmental Health Department investigate complaints of housing disrepair made by members of the public. We aim to improve standards of safety and repair in privately rented properties and houses in multiple occupation (HMO’s).

Housing Health and Safety Rating Scheme (HHSRS)

In April 2005 'The Housing Act 2004' implemented a property assessment tool known as the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).  A property is assessed under this system and is judged whether there is a likely risk to health and safety of the current occupants.

There are 29 hazards which can be judged including:-

• Damp & Mould
• Excess Cold
• Falls on the level
• Falls between levels
• Crowding & Space
• Fire
• Electrical Hazards
• Ergonomics

The inspecting officer scores each hazard and dependent on the score there could be Category 1 or Category 2 hazards. Where there is a Category 1 hazard this department has a duty to take action, where there is a category 2 hazard there is more discretion.

The type of action taken will dependent on the risk, the occupancy and potential threat to visitors, and any effect on the locality.  Before any course of action, we will consult with the landlord, unless there is imminent danger or the landlord cannot be contacted.

Before any formal enforcement action is taken, we seek to provide advice & assistance to the landlords to ensure they know their rights and responsibilities.  We can also provide advice and assistance to tenants who contact us about issues with their housing condition.

If you think your private rented property is in a poor state of repair please contact us.

We will need your details and the details of your landlord, letting agent or the person to whom you would report any concerns.  We are not able to undertake repairs without contacting the owner of the property.

Filthy and Verminous houses

The Environmental Health Department also investigate properties which are considered to be filthy and verminous and try to work with the occupant to remove any rubbish.  However, in some circumstances we would have no choice but to take formal action.

Council Housing

The Environmental Health Department do not have powers to change people’s banding on the Bassetlaw District Council's Housing waiting lists.  We can offer our opinion and/or write a report, but the final decisions remain with the Allocations Team.

If you would like more information please contact us via our online enquiry form, email environmental.health@bassetlaw.gov.uk or telephone 01909 533 533.

Last Updated on Wednesday, May 8, 2024