Compliance Standards for Operators
Properties within the Exempt Accommodation framework must meet defined standards. This page explains what is required, who is responsible, and how compliance is maintained.
Property Standards Within the Framework
The Exempt Accommodation framework operates to defined compliance standards. These standards protect tenants, maintain the integrity of the framework, and ensure properties remain suitable for supported housing.
As an Operator, you are responsible for ensuring your property meets and maintains these standards. Some compliance items are your responsibility to provide directly. Others can be arranged through the framework's approved panel of contractors.
All properties must pass an inspection before going live. Ongoing compliance is monitored through periodic inspections during operation.
Initial Property Inspection
Before any property can go live within the framework, it must pass an initial compliance inspection. This inspection verifies that the property meets HMO standards and framework-specific requirements.
What the Inspection Covers
- •Fire safety systems and equipment
- •General property condition and safety
- •Room sizes and layout suitability
- •Kitchen and bathroom facilities
- •Heating, ventilation, and damp assessment
- •Documentation review (gas safety, EICR, EPC)
Inspection Outcomes
If your property passes the initial inspection, it can proceed to documentation setup and tenant placement. If it fails, you will receive a clear list of items requiring attention. You can arrange the necessary works and request a re-inspection.
Re-Inspection Fee
A re-inspection fee applies if your property fails the initial inspection and requires a subsequent visit. This covers the cost of the additional assessment. Details of applicable fees are provided during the suitability assessment stage.
Fire Safety Requirements
Fire safety is a fundamental requirement for all properties within the framework. Specific requirements apply to detection systems, assessments, and ongoing maintenance.
Interlinked Smoke Alarms
Properties must have interlinked smoke detection systems. This means that when one alarm activates, all alarms in the property sound simultaneously. Standalone, non-interlinked alarms do not meet framework standards.
Carbon Monoxide Detection
Carbon monoxide detectors are required in any room containing a fuel-burning appliance or adjacent to rooms with solid fuel appliances. This includes properties with gas boilers, fires, or similar equipment.
Fire Risk Assessment
A fire risk assessment must be completed for the property. This assessment identifies potential fire hazards and recommends control measures. The framework can arrange this through its approved panel if required.
Escape Routes
Clear escape routes must be maintained at all times. Fire doors must be in good working order where required. Emergency lighting may be necessary depending on property layout and fire risk assessment recommendations.
Fire safety requirements are non-negotiable. Properties that do not meet these standards cannot operate within the framework.
Environmental and Condition Standards
Beyond fire safety, properties must meet standards relating to environmental conditions and general habitability.
Damp and Mould Assessment
Properties must be free from significant damp and mould issues. A damp and mould report may be required as part of the initial assessment. The framework can arrange this through its approved panel. Any identified issues must be addressed before the property can go live.
Heating and Ventilation
Adequate heating must be available in all habitable rooms. Ventilation standards must be met, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms. Extractor fans should be present and operational where required.
Gas Safety Certificate (CP12)
Properties with gas appliances must have a valid gas safety certificate. This must be renewed annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. You are responsible for arranging and maintaining this documentation.
Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
A valid EICR is required, with any Category 1 or Category 2 codes addressed. The report must be no more than five years old unless more frequent testing is recommended. You are responsible for arranging this.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
A valid EPC is required. Properties must meet the minimum EPC rating requirements under current regulations. You are responsible for ensuring your property complies with applicable energy efficiency standards.
Allocation of Compliance Responsibilities
Understanding who is responsible for each compliance item is essential. Some items you arrange directly. Others can be coordinated through the framework.
Your Responsibilities
Items you arrange and provide directly
- •Annual gas safety certificate (CP12)
- •Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
- •Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- •Installation and maintenance of interlinked smoke alarms
- •Carbon monoxide detectors where required
- •General property maintenance and repairs
- •Remedial works identified by inspections
Framework Coordination
Items arranged through the framework's approved panel
- •Initial property inspection
- •Fire risk assessment
- •Damp and mould reporting
- •Periodic compliance inspections
- •Compliance guidance and framework standards documentation
Note: Costs for framework-coordinated services are disclosed during onboarding.
Ongoing Obligations for Operators
Compliance is not a one-time requirement. As an Operator, you have ongoing obligations to maintain property standards throughout your participation in the framework.
Maintain Property to Framework Standards
You must maintain your property to the standards required by the framework. This includes addressing wear and tear, keeping systems operational, and ensuring the property remains safe and habitable.
Report Issues Promptly
If issues arise that may affect compliance or tenant safety, you must address them promptly. This includes responding to tenant reports of defects, addressing maintenance issues before they escalate, and keeping the framework informed of significant matters.
Allow Periodic Inspections
The framework conducts periodic inspections to verify ongoing compliance. You must provide reasonable access for these inspections. The frequency and scope of inspections are detailed in the Service Level Agreement.
Comply with Fire Safety Requirements
Fire safety is an ongoing responsibility. This includes testing smoke alarms regularly, keeping escape routes clear, maintaining fire doors, and ensuring tenants understand emergency procedures.
Renew Certifications
Gas safety certificates, EICRs, and other certifications must be renewed before they expire. It is your responsibility to track expiry dates and arrange renewals. Operating with expired certifications is a breach of framework requirements.
Non-Compliance and Remediation
The framework takes compliance seriously. If issues are identified, there is a clear process for remediation.
Identification of Issues
Compliance issues may be identified through periodic inspections, tenant reports, or self-reporting by the Operator. When issues are identified, you will receive clear information about what needs to be addressed.
Remediation Timeframes
Depending on the nature of the issue, you will be given a reasonable timeframe to complete remediation. Urgent safety issues must be addressed immediately. Less critical items may have longer timeframes. Failure to remediate within agreed timeframes is a serious matter.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Persistent non-compliance or failure to address identified issues may result in suspension from the framework or termination of your Service Level Agreement. The framework cannot operate properties that do not meet required standards.
The objective is not to be punitive but to maintain standards that protect tenants and the integrity of the framework. Operators who engage constructively with compliance requirements will find the process straightforward.
Compliance Support from the Framework
You are not alone in meeting compliance requirements. The framework provides support to help Operators understand and meet standards.
Approved Contractor Panel
Access to vetted contractors for fire risk assessments, damp reports, and other compliance-related work. Using the approved panel is optional but provides quality assurance.
Compliance Guidance
Clear documentation of framework standards and requirements. Guidance on what is required and how to meet it.
Inspection Coordination
The framework coordinates initial and periodic inspections. You receive advance notice and clear feedback on outcomes.
Direct Communication
If you have questions about compliance requirements or are unsure how to address an issue, you can contact the framework directly for guidance.
Understanding the Full Picture
Compliance standards are one part of the framework. To understand how the Exempt Accommodation model works overall, including your role as an Operator and how income is structured, see our detailed guides.
For a complete overview of what joining the framework involves, including how the framework operates and the onboarding process from submission to going live, explore the information available across our site.
Ready to Assess Your Property?
The first step is a property submission. We will assess your property against framework requirements and let you know whether it qualifies. If works are required, we will explain exactly what is needed.
No obligation at this stage. Initial assessment provided within 2 working days.
Important Information
This page provides general information about compliance standards within the Exempt Accommodation framework. Specific requirements may vary depending on property type, location, and individual circumstances.
Compliance requirements may change over time due to regulatory developments. Operators are responsible for staying informed of applicable requirements and maintaining their properties accordingly.
All arrangements are documented through a formal Service Level Agreement. You should seek independent legal and professional advice before joining the framework.