Your rights
Your rights as a tenant
As a resident of a registered provider of social housing you have a range of important legal rights. Here you will find your key rights and the responsibilities IDS has under housing law and regulatory standards. Further rights can be found by consulting your signed tenancy agreement.
Decent Homes Standard
Your home must meet the Government’s Decent Homes Standard. This means it must:
- Be in a reasonable state of repair
- Have reasonably modern facilities and services
- Offer adequate heating and insulation (thermal comfort)
- Be free from serious health or safety hazards
Health and Safety Obligations
IDS must comply with all relevant health and safety legislation, including:
- Annual gas safety checks
- Electrical installation inspections
- Fire safety in communal areas
- Water hygiene measures (e.g. Legionella control)
- Safe maintenance of lifts, stairs, and other shared facilities
These protections are in place to help ensure your safety in your home and surrounding areas.
Right to a Fit and Habitable Home
By law, your home must be fit for human habitation. This means it must be:
- Safe, secure, and structurally sound
- Free from serious damp, mould, infestations, and disrepair
Right to Privacy and Notice Before Visits
You have the right to peaceful enjoyment of your home. IDS:
- Must give you at least 24 hours’ notice in writing before visiting your home (unless in an emergency)
- May only enter for inspections, repairs, or maintenance with your consent
Rights of Disabled Tenants
If you are disabled, IDS must make reasonable adjustments to ensure fair access and use of your home and services. This may include:
- Installing aids or adaptations (e.g. ramps, handrails)
- Changing policies or procedures
- Ensuring equal treatment under the Equality Act 2010
Right to Timely Repairs
You have the right to have repairs carried out within a reasonable time.
- Urgent repairs (e.g. no heating or water leaks) should be prioritised
- You may be entitled to compensation or recourse if repairs are unreasonably delayed
Right to be Consulted
IDS must consult you on:
- Changes to housing management policies that affect you
- Any major works or improvements where your contribution would exceed £250
You also have the right to participate in tenant forums or associations.
Access to Information
You may request:
- Copies of policies (e.g. repairs, complaints, tenancy management)
- Reports on performance and tenant satisfaction
- Details of your rights and responsibilities under your tenancy
Right to Complain
If you are dissatisfied with IDS’s service, you have the right to:
- Use the formal complaints process
- Escalate to a ‘designated person’ (such as an MP or local councillor)
- Contact the Housing Ombudsman Service for independent support
Protection from Unlawful Eviction
You cannot be evicted without a proper notice and court order.
- IDS must follow legal eviction procedures
- You are protected from harassment, intimidation, or unauthorised entry
Succession and Assignment
Depending on your tenancy type, you may have the right to:
- Pass on the tenancy to a spouse, civil partner, or family member upon death (succession)
- Transfer the tenancy to someone else (assignment), such as in the case of family breakdown or domestic abuse
Check your tenancy agreement for specific provisions.
Transfers and Mutual Exchanges
You may apply to:
- Transfer to another suitable social housing property
- Mutually exchange your home with another social tenant, subject to approval