The Decent Homes Standard & Renters’ Rights Act 2025: A Guide for Bournemouth Landlords

The private rented sector (PRS) is facing its most significant transformation in over three decades. With the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 receiving Royal Assent in October 2025, the countdown has begun for a "Big Bang" implementation on May 1, 2026.

For letting agents in Bournemouth and local property owners, this legislation represents a fundamental shift. For the first time, the Decent Homes Standard (DHS) will be legally mandated for private landlords. This guide breaks down exactly what the new standard entails, the strict repair timelines under Awaab’s Law, and how to prepare your buy-to-let in Bournemouth for the new compliance landscape.

What is the Decent Homes Standard for the Private Sector?

Historically, 20% of privately rented homes have fallen below the standards expected in the social sector. The extension of the Decent Homes Standard aims to eliminate these discrepancies. To be considered "decent" under the new regulations, a property must meet five core criteria:

1. Criterion A: The Statutory Minimum (HHSRS)

The property must be free from Category 1 hazards (e.g., dangerous wiring, structural instability). Local authorities can issue fines of up to £7,000 for non-compliance.

2. Criterion B: Reasonable State of Repair

This criterion shifts the focus from "reactive repairs" to "preventative maintenance". Property management in Bournemouth will need to become more proactive; a heating system that is old and unreliable will no longer pass inspection, even if it is technically functional.

Example: A 20-year-old boiler that works is fine; a 5-year-old boiler that leaks constantly is a breach.

3. Criterion C: Modern Facilities

Tenants are entitled to functional amenities. To pass, a property usually needs a kitchen with adequate space (ideally under 20 years old), a bathroom that is appropriately located (ideally under 30 years old), and adequate noise insulation.

4. Criterion D: Thermal Comfort & Energy Efficiency

Addressing fuel poverty is a priority. Homes must have effective insulation and efficient heating. This aligns with the government's goal for an EPC rating of C by 2030, a key consideration for property investment in Bournemouth where older coastal housing stock may need retrofitting.

5. Criterion E: Freedom from Damp and Mould

Explicitly added to support Awaab’s Law, this mandates that homes must be free from significant damp and mould growth.

Awaab’s Law and Local Property Management

Perhaps the most critical operational change is the introduction of Awaab’s Law to the private sector. This sets legally enforceable timeframes for investigating hazards.

If a tenant reports a hazard, landlords or their property experts in Bournemouth must strictly adhere to the "Repair Clock":

• Emergency Investigation: Within 24 Hours for imminent risks.

• Written Summary: Within 3 Working Days outlining findings.

• Start Repairs: Within 5 Working Days.

Given these tight turnarounds, self-managing landlords may struggle. Many are now turning to professional property management in Bournemouth to ensure they have the 24/7 contractor networks required to meet these statutory deadlines.

The "Big Bang" Timeline & Rental Valuations

The government has opted for a single commencement date to avoid a two-tier market.

• October 27, 2025: The Renters’ Rights Act received Royal Assent.


• December 27, 2025 (Phase 0): Councils gain new investigatory powers to inspect properties and access third-party data to identify rogue operators.



• May 1, 2026 (The "Big Bang"): Section 21 is abolished, and all tenancies convert to periodic (rolling) tenancies. Rental Bidding Ban: Landlords and estate agents in Bournemouth will be banned from accepting offers above the advertised rent.

• Late 2026 - 2028 (Phase 2): The new Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database goes live. Registration will be mandatory for all landlords to let property or gain possession in court.

• 2027 – 2030 (Phase 3): Full enforcement of the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law in the private sector is expected to settle, following final consultations.

This ban makes getting an accurate rental valuation in Bournemouth critical. You can no longer rely on a "bidding war" to find the market price. If you price too low, you are stuck, as rent increases are capped to once per year (Section 13). We recommend seeking a professional rent valuation in Bournemouth well before marketing to ensure your yield is protected without breaching the new rules.

How to Prepare Your Investment Strategy

The abolition of Section 21 means compliance is now the only route to possession. If your property isn't registered on the new PRS Database or fails safety checks, you may be barred from using Section 8 to regain your property.

Your Pre-2026 Checklist:

1. Audit for Damp & Mould: Inspect properties now to meet Criterion E.

2. Digitize Records: Prepare gas, electric, and EPC certificates for the national PRS Database.

3. Review Rents: With the bidding ban approaching, ensure your portfolio has an up-to-date valuation.

Conclusion

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 is designed to professionalize the sector. For landlords letting agents in Bournemouth, the era of "passive income" is ending. Active management, rapid repair response, and strict adherence to the Decent Homes Standard are now the price of entry.

Whether you are an accidental landlord or a seasoned investor, speaking to local property experts in Bournemouth is the best next step to safeguard your asset against these incoming changes.