Category: Uncategorized

When accommodation is being assessed for statutory overcrowding, it is important to distinguish the legal room standard from the space standard. Part X of the Housing Act 1985 sets out these tests for the relevant accommodation.

Room standard

The room standard considers the number of people of different ages and sexes who may be required to sleep in the same room. The legal rules include age-related provisions and should be applied to the actual household circumstances.

Space standard

The space standard considers the number of people who may sleep in the accommodation by reference to the number and floor area of rooms available for sleeping. Not every room in a property is necessarily suitable or counted in the same way.

Why accurate information matters

Room dimensions, the use of each room, the number of occupants and their ages can all affect the assessment. A property inspection report should clearly identify the information relied upon and any limitations.

A little preparation can help a property inspection visit run smoothly. The inspector will need to understand the property layout and the people who currently live there or are proposed to move in.

Information to prepare

• Full property address and postcode
• Number of bedrooms and other habitable rooms
• Names or number and ages of current occupants
• Details of proposed additional occupants
• Room allocation and sleeping arrangements
• Access to relevant rooms and shared facilities

During the visit

The inspector may record room dimensions, the use of rooms, facilities and relevant visible condition observations within the agreed scope. Please identify any areas that cannot be accessed so that the report can explain any limitations.

After the visit

Check that the information supplied about occupants and proposed arrangements is accurate. If anything changes, contact the inspection provider to discuss whether an update is needed.

To arrange an inspection, contact Evergreen Engineers Ltd with the property postcode and your preferred timescale.

A physical property inspection and a remote report are different services. It is important to understand what information can be verified in each case before deciding which service is appropriate.

Physical inspection

During an on-site visit, the inspector can view the property directly, take measurements where included in the scope, observe room layout and ask questions about occupancy and sleeping arrangements.

Remote or photograph-based report

A remote report relies on the photographs, measurements and information supplied by the client. The report should make this reliance clear. The client is responsible for ensuring that the information supplied is complete and accurate.

Which should I choose?

If independent verification of the property is important, a physical visit is generally the more direct option. Discuss your circumstances and any evidence requirements with your immigration adviser before choosing a service.