Renters’ Rights Bill: What is the Decent Homes Standard for HMOs?

November 14, 2025

The Renters’ Rights Bill is bringing major changes to the rental sector in England. One of the biggest updates is the introduction of a clearer and more consistent Decent Homes Standard for all rented homes. This includes Houses in Multiple Occupation, which already require some of the highest levels of compliance and safety in the country. Investors, landlords and developers need to understand what this new standard means and how it will shape the future of HMO investing.

At Foot Forward Properties we have more than 23 years of experience in HMO development and management. We build and manage compliant, high quality, high yielding HMO properties for investors across the UK. We have always strongly supported building high quality HMO properties and we are fully behind this change. Raising standards protects tenants, improves outcomes for investors and pushes the sector forward. Poor quality HMOs have damaged parts of the market for years, so this new standard is a much needed improvement that aligns with how we have always operated.

What Is the Decent Homes Standard?

The Decent Homes Standard sets the minimum acceptable benchmark for all rented homes. It focuses on safety, structural condition, modern facilities and energy efficiency. Until now it mainly applied to social housing. The Renters’ Rights Bill extends it into the private rented sector and brings HMOs into the scope of this obligation.

How the Standard Applies to HMOs

HMOs already face strict rules, including licensing, fire safety compliance, room sizing requirements, electrical inspections and ongoing maintenance obligations. The Decent Homes Standard does not replace these rules. It works alongside them and strengthens the expectations placed on HMO landlords.

The main areas covered include the following.

Safety and Health

The property must be free from serious hazards under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System. This includes risks linked to faulty electrics, poor fire compartmentation, mould, damp, lack of ventilation, trip hazards and unsafe layouts. Our HMOs always exceed these requirements because quality reduces long term costs and protects tenants.

State of Repair

The property must be in good working order with no structural problems or major disrepair. This includes roofs, walls, windows, heating systems and communal spaces. We include proactive inspections and maintenance in our full management service to ensure all properties stay in top condition.

Modern Facilities

HMOs must offer suitable modern facilities that match the number of tenants living in the property. This includes kitchens, bathrooms, communal spaces, appliances and ventilation. We design every HMO above minimum size and facility standards to future proof every investment.

Warmth and Energy Efficiency

The standard requires warm, dry and energy efficient accommodation. This includes modern heating systems, proper insulation and reduced heat loss. Our developments always aim for strong EPC ratings which increase rental demand and keep energy bills manageable.

Why This Matters for HMO Investors

These changes will expose the difference between well built HMOs and properties that have been neglected or converted cheaply in the past. Many older HMOs will struggle to meet the new standard. Quality HMOs that are built and maintained properly will stand out and command stronger demand, stronger valuations and longer tenancies.

Investors who buy well built HMOs benefit from:

  • Higher occupancy

  • Better tenant retention

  • Stronger valuations

  • Reduced long term risks

  • A more sustainable investment

We have always built HMOs to a level that already meets or exceeds the Decent Homes Standard. We were delivering this standard long before legislation required it.

What Foot Forward Properties Does for You

We design, build and manage fully compliant, high quality HMOs that meet all legal requirements. Our complete service includes:

  • Fire safety and electrical safety

  • Licensing, planning and building control sign off

  • Ongoing inspections and maintenance

  • Tenant vetting and rent collection

  • Full compliance management

  • Long term support for investors

You invest in a high quality HMO that is ready for long term performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Decent Homes Standard?

It is a national benchmark that sets the minimum acceptable quality for all rented homes. It focuses on safety, structural condition, energy efficiency and modern living facilities.

Do HMOs already have strict rules?

Yes. HMOs already follow some of the toughest rules in the UK housing market. The new standard adds another layer of protection and consistency.

Will older HMOs struggle with the new rules?

Many older HMOs or past conversions will find it difficult to comply. Poor insulation, structural issues and ageing facilities are common problems. High quality HMOs will have no problems meeting the standard.

How will this affect investors?

It will increase the demand for well built, compliant HMOs. These properties will achieve stronger valuations, lower maintenance issues and longer tenancies.

Do Foot Forward Properties build HMOs that meet the standard?

Yes. Every property we build already meets or exceeds the standard. We have always focused on building high quality HMOs and fully support this improvement across the sector.

Who is responsible for ensuring compliance?

The landlord or property owner is responsible. Our investors do not need to worry because we handle compliance, inspections, testing, maintenance and safety across every property we manage.

Does the standard include communal areas?

Yes. Communal spaces are included because they are central to HMO living. Kitchens, bathrooms, hallways and shared lounges must be safe and well maintained.

Will running costs increase?

Running costs may increase for landlords who own older HMOs that need significant upgrades. Investors who buy high quality properties from the start will see minimal impact.

How can I buy a compliant HMO?

You can view all of our fully compliant, high quality HMOs at:
www.footforwardproperties.co.uk/hmo-for-sale