The Homes Fitness for Habitation Act 2019 came into force in March 2019 and applies to both social and private rented landlords alike. The Act sets out standards that landlords must meet to ensure that all parts of the property they rent out is fit for human habitation.
This means that landlords need to make sure that their property is free from hazards which are so serious that the dwelling is not ‘reasonably suitable’ for occupation.
Most landlords already provide safe, warm and secure homes but where a landlord fails to meet the standards set, the tenant has the right to take action in the courts for breach of contract on the grounds that the property is unfit for human habitation.
Using the Act tenants will be able to apply for an order by the court requiring the landlord to remedy the problem, and/or claim damages to compensate them for having to live in a property which was not fit.
For more information and guidance on how to use the Act go to our guide to Homes Fitness for Habitation Act