Government to crackdown on poor temporary accommodation standards

The UK government has announced a series of measures aimed at improving the quality of temporary accommodation used to house homeless households. These initiatives include introducing national targets to end the unlawful use of bed and breakfast (B&B) accommodation, extending the Decent Homes Standard to temporary housing, and strengthening enforcement powers against landlords and local authorities that fail to meet required standards. This development is significant for landlords, letting agents, and property managers involved in temporary accommodation provision, as it signals increased regulatory scrutiny and potential penalties for non-compliance.

National Targets and Enforcement for Temporary Accommodation

In a recent parliamentary statement, the homelessness minister outlined the government’s commitment to eradicating the unlawful use of B&Bs for temporary housing. This forms part of a broader homelessness strategy aimed at preventing homelessness by the end of the current parliamentary term. The government has reported progress, including a notable 63% reduction in families with children residing in B&Bs for longer than six weeks compared to the previous year.

To support these goals, a £950 million Local Authority Housing Fund has been allocated to assist councils in securing better quality temporary accommodation. However, the government has acknowledged variability in council performance and intends to implement mechanisms to escalate and intervene where local authorities fail to improve standards. This includes publicly holding councils to account where they do not take adequate steps to enhance accommodation quality or access to support services.

Applying the Decent Homes Standard to Temporary Accommodation

A key component of the government’s approach is the plan to extend the Decent Homes Standard to all temporary accommodation. This standard, traditionally applied to social housing, sets minimum requirements for property condition, including the absence of serious hazards and adequate facilities. The government intends to publish guidance by the end of 2026 to assist landlords in preparing for these enhanced standards.

Alongside this, there is a proposal to broaden the scope of Awaab’s Law, which currently addresses hazards such as mould and damp in social housing, to cover temporary accommodation occupied under licence and private rented tenancies. This reflects a growing emphasis on ensuring that temporary housing is safe, habitable, and free from category 1 hazards as defined under housing health and safety regulations.

Strengthening Enforcement Powers and Fines

The recently enacted Renters’ Rights Act introduces new enforcement powers for local authorities, including the ability to issue fines of up to £7,000 for category 1 hazards found in private rented homes. The government is considering extending these powers to cover other forms of temporary accommodation, which could have significant implications for landlords providing such properties.

Landlords should be aware that failure to maintain properties to the required standards may result in substantial penalties. Local authorities will be expected to set out clear policies on how they will ensure temporary accommodation meets safety and quality requirements, including compliance with the Decent Homes Standard and hazard-free conditions.

Review and Support of Local Housing Allowance Rates

The government has also confirmed it will continue to monitor Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates, which determine the level of housing benefit support available to private renters. From April 2024, LHA rates were set at the 30th percentile of local market rents, and ministers have announced a freeze on these rates for the 2026/27 financial year.

For renters experiencing a shortfall between their housing benefit and rent, the Crisis Resilience Fund Housing Payment offers immediate financial assistance. This fund supports individuals facing rent shortfalls or requiring help with moving costs, reflecting ongoing efforts to provide targeted support within the private rented sector.

What this means for landlords

Landlords providing temporary accommodation, whether under social housing arrangements or within the private rented sector, should anticipate increased regulatory expectations and enforcement activity. Ensuring properties meet the Decent Homes Standard and are free from category 1 hazards will be critical to avoid penalties and maintain compliance with evolving legislation such as the Renters’ Rights Act.

Letting agents and property managers involved in temporary accommodation placements should review their current property standards and maintenance procedures. They may need to liaise closely with local authorities to understand new policy requirements and support tenants effectively, particularly those receiving housing benefit or facing financial hardship.

What TLA members should consider

• Review and, where necessary, upgrade temporary accommodation properties to comply with the Decent Homes Standard and ensure the absence of category 1 hazards.
• Stay informed about local authority policies on temporary accommodation and any escalation procedures related to poor performance or non-compliance.
• Prepare for potential extensions of enforcement powers under the Renters’ Rights Act, including the possibility of substantial fines for housing hazards.
• Monitor Local Housing Allowance rates and understand the implications for tenants receiving housing benefit, particularly regarding rent shortfalls and available support schemes.
• Engage with tenants proactively to address maintenance issues promptly and provide information on available support such as the Crisis Resilience Fund Housing Payment.
• Access relevant training and compliance resources through the TLA Academy to remain up to date with legislative changes and best practices in temporary accommodation management.

TLA Training Academy

The Landlord Association provides structured guidance, compliance education and practical support for landlords, letting agents and property professionals. Members can access training and resources designed to help them stay organised, informed and prepared.

Landlords can explore the Academy here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/tla-academy/

Those looking to join and access member support can register here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/get-started-with-the-landlord-association/

TLA update

The Landlord Association is continuing to expand its support, resources and partner network for landlords, tenants, agents and property professionals across the UK. Service providers interested in working with TLA can register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/