HHSRS assessments
HHSRS surveys and hazard assessments
The Housing Health and Safety Rating System is the risk-based system used in England to assess health and safety hazards in homes. We inspect and report against it, clearly and consistently.
About HHSRS
HHSRS was introduced in 2006 under the Housing Act 2004. It evaluates the potential risk of harm to an occupier from hazards in a home and rates how serious any hazard is. Councils use it when enforcing standards in rented housing, and it underpins the Decent Homes Standard for social housing.
In 2026 new regulations brought a review of the system into force. The government has published new statutory operating and enforcement guidance, and current official materials refer to 21 potential hazards, after statistically similar hazards were brought together. Our assessments follow the current official guidance.
When an HHSRS assessment is useful
- Stock condition surveys and Decent Homes Standard checks
- Responding to a council notice or preparing for an inspection
- Disrepair claims and disputes, where an objective record is needed
- Private landlords wanting to understand and reduce hazards before letting
- Prioritising a programme of works across several properties
What you receive
A written report identifying hazards found, the evidence for each, the likely risk to occupiers and practical recommendations to reduce or remove them, prioritised so you can plan.
HHSRS and Awaab’s Law are different tests
Awaab’s Law is person-centred and does not require a full HHSRS assessment. We make clear in every report which framework is being applied. See Awaab’s Law investigations.
Official guidance
Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) guidance (GOV.UK)
General information only, not legal advice.
Further reading: HHSRS and the damp and mould growth hazard.
Related services
Need an independent view?
Tell us about the property and what you need. We’ll reply by email to confirm scope, timing and a quotation.