The government is calling on landlords to start bringing their properties up to the Decent Homes Standard as soon as possible, despite the 2035 compliance deadline for the private rented sector. 

The standard requires homes to be in a good state of repair and to provide key amenities, such as a kitchen with appropriate space and layout, a suitably positioned bathroom and WC, and sufficient insulation from outside noise.

In a written parliamentary question, Labour MP Alex Sobel asked “What steps the government is taking to encourage private landlords to meet the Decent Homes Standard ahead of the 2035 deadline?”

Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook said landlords are being urged to consider upgrading their properties “at the earliest opportunity”, adding that the publication of the standard now provides a clear framework for doing so. 

He confirmed that compliance will begin to be monitored before the final deadline and that the government will work with the sector to ensure landlords understand the new requirements. 

The update comes as official data shows landlords will need to invest an estimated £26.5bn to meet the Decent Homes Standard.