From 23 June 2026, the way housing hazards are described and assessed in England is changing. These changes relate to the Housing Health and Safety Rating System, known as HHSRS. Councils use HHSRS to assess health and safety risks in homes.

The 2026 changes make the system easier to understand. Some hazard descriptions have been grouped together and the way hazards are rated has been simplified. The legal duty to act on serious hazards remains the same. Councils still have a duty to take action on category 1 hazards.

Your home should still be safe and free from serious hazards. Report problems such as damp and mould, dangerous electrics, leaks, fire risks, unsafe stairs, structural problems or poor ventilation as soon as you notice them.

When you report a problem, tell us what it is, where it is, how long it has been happening and whether it is affecting anyone in your household. This is especially important if there are young children, older people or anyone with a health condition that could be made worse by the issue.

For social housing tenants, these changes also sit alongside Awaab’s Law. Since 27 October 2025, social landlords must make emergency hazards safe within 24 hours, investigate significant damp and mould within 10 working days, and provide a written summary within 3 working days of the inspection. If damp and mould is confirmed, work to make the home safe must begin within 5 working days.

In short: the HHSRS changes make housing safety rules clearer. They do not reduce your rights. If something in your home feels unsafe or is affecting your health, report it as soon as possible so action can be taken.