Property Standards

The property must be structurally stable and free from disrepair

The property must be free from damp

The staircase and balustrade must be safe

The property must have adequate fire alarms

Mains powered smoke detectors must be installed on each floor

Gas, solid fuel or oil service and safety certificates must be up to date. (Certificates close to expiry may not be accepted) Required at the handover stage

Electrical lighting and power installations must have been checked and certified safe by an appropriately qualified person

External doors and windows must give a reasonable level of physical security

If there is a garden it must be easy to maintain, reasonably private, safe, and suitable for young children to play in

The heating system must be EPC E or above (LA’s will advise on grants available to bring the property up to the agreed standard and/or to increase the EPC rating to a C)

External doors and windows must be adequately draught proofed

The hot water tank must be effectively insulated

There must be mechanical extract ventilation in the kitchen and bathroom

The kitchen should be in good working condition

The bathroom and WC facilities should be in good working condition

There should be a working shower (this can be an over bath shower)

A CO alarm should be in each room where there is a gas appliance

An asbestos survey (conducted by the LA) will be required

Fire risk assessment is required (with exception of a self-contained house)