Raising the Standard: Embracing the New Decent Homes Criteria

Written by Judy Hegarty, Deputy Managing Director at Fortem

Social housing provides the foundation of our caring society. It is essential that homes, whether in the social or private rented sector, are maintained to ensure residents live in homes that are safe, warm and decent.

In February 2025 Angela Rayner announced the intent of government to improve the quality of social housing and to strengthen the voice of the tenant. It set out the plan to introduce Awaab’s Law from October 2025 but also plans to consult on a new Decent Homes Standard. We are pleased to see that the consultation is now under way including a modernised and resident-focused approach. In particular, we welcome:

• New and proactive approaches to tackling damp and mould
• A shift from assessing components based on age to assessing their actual condition
• Updated criteria for kitchens and bathrooms that focus on functionality and layout
• Strengthened requirements for heating and insulation to reduce cold and damp, with solutions that meet Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards.

The review of the standards presents an opportunity to align our services to an updated delivery model, underpinned by strong and purposeful sector partnerships. Working closely with our clients, we aim to deliver services that reflect these enhanced standards while embedding the voice of residents into everything we do.

As these standards evolve, data must become central to delivery. We are already making significant progress in this area. Data becomes intelligent and powerful when it is accurate, timely, and accessible, enabling analysis and actionable insight. This allows us to focus our efforts where they matter most - improving outcomes for residents.

However, standards alone are not the end goal for Fortem, they are the foundation for a wider ambition. While the updated criteria provide a clear benchmark for service, it is the real impact on residents’ homes, wellbeing and communities that will drive meaningful change.

We welcome the direction of these reforms and are energised by the opportunity to help shape their implementation. Every Home Matters, and that belief continues to guide our work.