The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) is the statutory system for assessing housing conditions.
How does it work?
- Inspections are carried out Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm.
- The inspection officer will gather evidence, look for hazards, make notes and take photographs. The evidence is assessed and rated off-site.
- Category 1 hazards are rated A – C. The council has a duty to take action on these hazards and will request property improvements.
- Category 2 hazards are rated D - J. The council has the power to take action on these hazards and will request property improvements for D rated hazards and advise occupants and owners about other hazards.
- The inspection officer will notify the owner about the rating and property improvements required.
- Non compliance or imminent risk of serious harm will usually mean a legal notice to improve the property or restrict its use will be served without prior notification.
- Non compliance with a legal notice may result in prosecution, property improvements and cost recovery.
Essential Information for Landlords and Agents
Preventing Common Hazards: excess cold, falls, fire and damp and mould
The Hazards
A hazard can be caused by any of the following problems:
1. Damp and mould growth 2. Excess cold 3. Excess heat 4. Asbestos (and MMF) 5. Biocides 6. Carbon monoxide and fuel combustion products 7. Lead 8. Radiation 9. Uncombusted fuel gas 10. Volatile Organic Compounds 11. Crowding and Space 12. Entry by intruders 13. Lighting 14. Noise Protection |
15. Domestic hygiene, pests and refuse 16. Food safety 17. Personal hygiene, sanitation and drainage 18. Water supply for domestic purpose 19. Falls associated with baths 20. Falling on level surfaces 21. Falling on Stairs etc. 22. Falling between levels 23. Electrical hazards 24. Fire 25. Flames, hot surfaces 26. Collision and entrapment 27. Explosions 28. Position and operability of amenities 29. Structural collapse and failing elements |