Official source directory

Go straight to the source.

The original law, government guidance and regulatory publications, clearly separated by nation and document type.

2 source recordsDownload register (CSV)

Northern IrelandGovernment guidance

Minimum fitness standards ↗

Department for Communities

Explains the existing statutory fitness standard, including dampness prejudicial to occupants’ health.

Status: Existing framework

Publication and check dates

Flag a correction

Official sources checked 27 Sep 2026. Review due — check the original sources before relying on this status.

Northern IrelandConsultation

Revised Decent Homes Standard consultation ↗

Department for Communities

Consultation closed on 4 March 2026. The page presents proposals, not evidence that a new Awaab-style deadline regime has commenced.

Status: Closed · proposals

Publication and check dates

Published: 26 Nov 2025
Applies / effective: Consultation closed 4 March 2026

Flag a correction

Official sources checked 27 Sep 2026. Review due — check the original sources before relying on this status.

How to read legal status and guidance

Legislation contains the legal requirements. Official guidance explains implementation, but its status depends on the document and jurisdiction. Regulatory standards and Ombudsman material have distinct roles.

MHCLG describes England’s Awaab’s Law guidance as non-statutory. Scotland’s guidance has a different status for private and social landlords. The Welsh WHQS addendum includes statutory guidance.

Official references

Read the source policy →