# EPCs, HHSRS and Decent Homes: What Agents Should Review Now

> Source: https://nolettinggo.co.uk/blog/epcs-hhsrs-and-decent-homes-what-agents-should-review-now/
> Author: Emotio Team
> Published: 2026-08-21T12:07:11+01:00
> Modified: 2026-08-21T12:08:53+01:00

Find out how EPC requirements, the Housing Health and Safety Rating System, and the Decent Homes Standard are shaping property compliance in 2026.

Property compliance has expanded well beyond annual gas safety checks and electrical safety checks.
    



    
        Today's letting agents must also consider energy efficiency, housing conditions and the overall
        quality of rental accommodation. As regulation continues to evolve, staying ahead of these
        requirements helps landlords avoid costly surprises while providing safer homes for tenants.
    




    

## Why EPCs Remain a Priority



    
        Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) continue to play a central role in the private rented sector.
    



    
        The government's longer-term ambition remains for rental properties to achieve higher energy
        efficiency standards, encouraging landlords to improve insulation, heating systems and overall
        property performance. The Renters' Rights Act briefing highlights **the government's target of EPC C for privately rented homes by 2030**, alongside proposed changes to how EPC performance may be measured in the future.
    



    
        Rather than waiting until any future deadlines approach, many landlords are already planning
        upgrades that improve both compliance and tenant satisfaction.
    




    

## Understanding HHSRS



    
        The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) assesses hazards that could affect occupants'
        health and wellbeing.
    



    
        It covers a wide range of risks, including damp, excess cold, fire safety, electrical hazards
        and falls.
    



    
        Routine property visits help identify these issues before they develop into more significant
        problems.
    




    

## The Decent Homes Standard



    
        The Decent Homes Standard is expected to have an increasing impact on the private rented sector,
        setting expectations around repair, safety, thermal comfort and modern facilities. According to
        No Letting Go's compliance briefing, the standard introduces a condition-based approach while
        placing greater emphasis on hazard prevention and timely repairs.
    



    
        For agents, this means routine property visits and detailed property reports become even more
        valuable, helping landlords identify maintenance requirements early and maintain higher property
        standards.
    




    

## Why Digital Property Reports Make a Difference



    
        Professional property reports provide a consistent record of a property's condition throughout
        the tenancy.
    



    
        Photographs, observations and maintenance recommendations all contribute to a stronger compliance
        history.
    



    
        Using an [Inventory Management System](https://nolettinggo.co.uk/services/property-inventory-management-at-no-letting-go/), agents can schedule routine property visits, securely store reports and monitor property condition over time.
    



    
        Property report evidence can then be managed centrally using [Kaptur](https://kaptursoftware.co.uk/), creating a complete audit trail that supports landlords if questions arise later.
    




    

## Conclusion



    
        Meeting compliance standards isn't simply about reacting to legislation. It's about maintaining
        properties proactively, identifying issues early and keeping accurate records of the work carried
        out.
    



    
        Regular routine property visits supported by digital reporting tools make this process more
        efficient while **helping letting agents and landlords** prepare for the future
        of property compliance.