The Government has introduced the Decent Home Standard and set a target to ensure that all social housing in the UK meets the set standards by 2010. A decent home is one that meets the following criteria:

• It meets the statutory minimum standard for housing – properties must be structurally sound, free from damp and disrepair and have adequate heating, lighting, ventilation, cooking facilities, drainage and suitable toilet and bathroom facilities.
• It is in a reasonable state of repair – its walls, roof, windows, doors, electrics, kitchen and bathroom should be in a sound condition.
• It has reasonably modern facilities and services – Its kitchen, bathroom and toilet should be reasonably modern and should be of adequate size and have reasonable noise insulation.
• It provides a reasonable degree of thermal comfort – it should be reasonably warm for those that live in it.

For more information about the Government's Decent Home Standard carry out a search for Decent Home Standard at www.communities.gov.uk

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