What is the Decent Homes Standard?

In 2001 the government established a minimum acceptable standard for homes let by registered social landlords such as housing associations and housing co-operatives. Although the definition of a “decent home” is complicated, the basic principles are relatively simple.

A decent home:

•  meets statutory requirements
• is in a good state of repair
• has modern facilities and services
• is properly heated and insulated.

Every property let by a registered social landlord must meet the decent homes standard by 2010.

The national picture

In 2001, more than one and a half million properties in the UK failed to meet the Decent Homes Standard. That’s more than one in five homes owned by councils, housing associations and other qualifying landlords. Many rented homes still do not have central heating, a modern kitchen or bathroom, double glazing or adequate insulation.

How do our homes rate?

In 2004 CDS Co-operatives commissioned a firm of surveyors to look at homes on every CDS Co-operatives owned estate, as well as on some independent co-op estates. At the time, around 93% of properties owned by CDS Co-operatives already met the standard in full, and only minor works were needed to bring the rest up to scratch. As of Autumn 2008 we have one job left to do at Phoenix Place to complete these works.

Our development and maintenance staff have been working with the independent co-ops to ensure that all their homes also meet the standard. If you are a committee member of an independent co-operative and have any concerns please do not hesitate to contact Steve Harriott, Development Manager.

For more information on the Decent Homes Standard you can read the guidance notes from the Department for Communities and Local Government.