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<p>The Housing Act 2004 is applicable to premises occupied as a dwelling by property
guardians. Under the Housing Act 2004, local authorities have a legal duty to keep
the housing conditions in their area under review and identify any action that may
need to be taken. If local authorities are aware of properties in their area occupied
by property guardians, they should consider inspecting these properties proactively
to identify potential health and safety hazards. The Housing Health & Safety Rating
System (HHSRS) applies across all premises occupied as a dwelling, including guardian
properties. If hazards are present, local authorities have tough enforcement powers.</p><p>Electrical
safety, gas safety and fire safety requirements apply to all private rented sector
properties including guardian properties when they are residential or used as a dwelling.
Fire safety in all non-domestic premises, including the common parts of houses in
multiple occupation (HMOs), is covered by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order
2005.</p><p>The Government has not carried out a specific assessment of the risks
to property guardians in buildings under different ownership. It is the role of local
authorities to inspect and take action as required. The Government is reviewing information
available to guardians and local authorities about their enforcement powers to make
sure this happens.</p><p> </p>
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