Decent Homes Standard

Housing 21 is committed to providing safe and good-quality homes for our residents.  

The Decent Homes Standard is a standard set by the UK Government which applies to the social rented sector. As a social landlord, we must provide homes which: 

• Meet the current statutory minimum standard for housing  

• Are in a reasonable state of repair  

• Have reasonably modern facilities  

• Provide a degree of thermal comfort 

Housing 21’s approach to property investment ensures we exceed the minimum standards. We deliver a stock investment programme which is based on Housing 21’s enhanced Property Standards: 

• Kitchens will be replaced every 20 to 25 years, with a backstop of 25 years  

• Bathrooms will be replaced every 20 to25 years, with a backstop of 25 years  

• All properties will have an EPC rating of C or above  

• All schemes will have a digital emergency call system installed in advance of the digital switchover  

• Communal areas at schemes will have design-led decoration, which are inspected every 8-10 years to assess condition  

In September 2024, the UK Government announced that the Decent Homes Standard will be undergoing consultation. Housing 21 will ensure our approach to stock investment will, at a minimum, meet the outcomes of these consultations.