Improving housing for health

Housing conditions come under the spotlight next month, when new regulations come into force to help local councils take action on poor living standards, both in social housing and  private households.  

The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) will replace the current fitness standard used by Stratford-on-Avon District Council in its environmental protection role. HHSRS assesses properties for 29 prescribed hazards as diverse as falls, excess cold, dampness and mould growth, to carbon monoxide, entry by intruders, fire and structural collapse.  

Hazards are then scored to take into account the chance of them happening and how much harm they might cause. This score is then used to help the Council decide what course of action to follow.  

"Poor quality housing has long been recognised as a cause of ill health," said Cllr Alan Akeister, Portfolio Holder for Environment at Stratford District Council.  

"This system is an improvement over the current fitness standard, as it covers far more of the hazardous conditions likely to be found within residential properties. It is also solely concerned with how the hazards affect the health of the occupants or visitors.  

"We may deal with the issues informally, or we can serve a hazard awareness notice, an improvement notice or a prohibition notice. We could also take emergency prohibition or remedial action.  

"The Council's vision is to create sustainable communities by improving the housing and support options of all people in the Stratford-on-Avon District who are experiencing housing difficulties, or who are at risk of experiencing housing difficulties.  

"One way of doing this is by seeking to improve housing standards, particularly for those in the greatest need."  

Anyone concerned about their housing conditions can call the District Council's Environmental Protection Team on 01789 260835, or refer to the Council's website for further advice - under the heading 'Living in the District' and then 'Housing'.