CGT: Delivering Tomorrow’s Rental Standards Today
A recent analysis by PropTech firm Inventory Base reveals that over one in five privately rented homes in England fail to meet the Decent Homes Standard (DHS) — a Government benchmark for safe, well-maintained housing.
When the Renters Rights Bill comes into force this autumn, the DHS will be extended to cover the private rental sector for the first time. This will mean that millions of homes which currently pass as lettable will become illegal to rent without significant upgrades.
What is the Decent Homes Standard?
The DHS was introduced in 2006 to improve the quality of social housing. It sets out that a home must:
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Be free from serious hazards under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (e.g., structural issues, dangerous electrics).
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Be in a reasonable state of repair, with key building elements (like roofs, windows, heating) in good condition.
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Have modern facilities, including adequate kitchens, bathrooms, and heating systems.
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Be warm, dry, and well-ventilated to protect health and reduce fuel costs.
Until now, it has only applied to council and housing association homes. The objective of extending the DHS is to bring the private rental sector up to the same quality and safety standards, improving tenant wellbeing and reducing long-term housing problems.
Why Landlords Can’t Wait Until 2035
Although the Government has indicated that landlords will have until 2035–2037 to comply, the reality is that energy efficiency rules will tighten much sooner — by 2030.
And waiting until the deadline brings risk:
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Rising repair costs over time.
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Possible enforcement action and fines.
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Tenants leaving due to poor conditions.
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Difficulty attracting new tenants when competitors are already compliant.
Why CGT is Already Ahead of the Game
While many agents will start preparing only after the law changes, CGT landlords are already in front. Our approach is designed to meet and exceed the DHS principles now — protecting your investment, reducing long-term costs, and ensuring your property is market-ready for years to come.
Here’s how we do it:
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Three property inspections per year – far above the industry average – to spot and resolve early signs of deterioration.
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A trusted network of skilled contractors ensuring fast, high-quality repairs at fair prices.
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Tenant education on ventilation, heating, and home care to prevent issues like damp and mould.
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Detailed evidence-based reports with photos and notes, so repair costs are allocated fairly between landlord, tenant, and general wear and tear.
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Balanced, compassionate management — listening to both landlords and tenants and resolving issues quickly and fairly.
The Bottom Line for Landlords
If the DHS proposal becomes law, more than a million privately rented homes will need significant upgrades. For unprepared landlords, that could mean sudden, costly work and possible loss of rental income.
CGT’s landlords, however, benefit from a proactive management strategy that’s already delivering the objectives of the Renters Rights Bill — years ahead of schedule.
The future of renting will reward those who act now. At CGT, we’re proud to say that future is already here.