20 Deferred

We recommend that the Secretary of State amend the Homelessness (Suitability of Accommodation) Order 2003...

Recommendation
We recommend that the Secretary of State amend the Homelessness (Suitability of Accommodation) Order 2003 to extend the six-week limit to accommodation that cannot comply with the new Decent Homes Standard. The six-week limit should apply from the date that the new standard comes into force in 2035. The ministry also must require local authorities to report 64 publicly when they have suspended enforcement action or applied hazard awareness notices to ensure properties that do not fully comply with the standard remain a last resort. (Recommendation, Paragraph 65) Complex needs
Government Response Summary
The government will engage with the sector to understand how to implement the Decent Homes Standard across temporary accommodation and review compliance, but is not yet in a position to confirm amending the Suitability Order, though it will be considered.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government Deferred
53. The current Decent Homes Standard already applies to temporary accommodation with a social landlord. We will engage with the sector to understand how we can implement the Decent Homes Standard across different types of temporary accommodation. 54. As part of this work, we are reviewing how we can ensure the standard is complied with. At this stage we are not in a position to confirm whether amendment of the Suitability Order is the most suitable route, but we will take this into consideration as we move forward.
Addressee Bodies
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Timeline
Recommendation age 0.3 yrs
Report published 22 Apr 2026