What has changed
The most visible change is that the original 29 hazard profiles have been consolidated into 21 hazard categories. Statistically similar hazards have been amalgamated so that assessors and landlords have a simpler, more workable list to consider.
The old A–J numerical band system has been replaced with clearer High, Medium and Low risk banding. A 'High' risk broadly aligns with the former Category 1 threshold — the level at which a local authority has a duty to take enforcement action.
The reforms also introduce indicative baseline standards, which set out the conditions a home is expected to meet. This gives landlords and tenants a far more transparent benchmark than the previous system offered.
What it means for landlords
The direction of travel is towards clearer expectations and firmer enforcement. Landlords should not assume that fewer categories means a lower bar — the underlying risks to occupants remain the same, and a 'High' risk finding still triggers a council's duty to act.
With the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab's Law extending into the private rented sector, well-evidenced HHSRS assessments are becoming a practical necessity rather than an optional extra, particularly around damp, mould and excess cold.
What it means for tenants
Tenants benefit from a more transparent system. The new banding and baseline standards make it easier to understand whether a problem in the home is likely to be treated as a serious hazard, and to raise it with the landlord or the local authority.
Where a High risk hazard is present, the council has a duty to consider action, giving tenants a clearer route to getting dangerous conditions put right.
How O Law Ventures can help
Our HHSRS hazard reports are fully aligned with the reformed 21-category framework and the new risk banding. We provide clear, court-ready assessments that identify hazards, explain their severity and set out the remedial steps required.
Whether you are a landlord preparing for the new standards or a tenant concerned about conditions, we can help you understand where a property stands. This article is general information and is not legal advice.