On 20 December 2018, the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 received royal Assent and will come into force on 20 March 2019.
This is an Act which amends the Landlord & Tenant Act 1985 to impose a requirement on all residential landlords to maintain their properties in a state of "fitness for human habitation".
The new Act aims to improve standards in the private and social rented sectors by putting an obligation on landlords to keep their property in good condition and giving tenants the right to take legal action where their landlord fails to do so.
The provisions of the legislation go beyond the requirements of the current legislation which simply ensures that landlords maintain the 'structure and exterior' of the dwelling house and to keep in repair the 'installations' for water and heating.
Landlords will be able to comply by demonstrating that they have good knowledge and records of steps taken by them to maintain the standards expected by the Act.
If you need any advice or guidance with regard to any housing related issue then we are able to help.
Please contact Richard Staton, Partner at Bradford & Son on 01709 377412
