Overcrowding in private rented housing

About overcrowding in rented properties

We investigate complaints of overcrowded houses using a standard contained within the Housing Act 1985. The Housing Act standard has changed very little since it was first set out in the 1957 Housing Act. 

Many people who contact us find that they are not legally overcrowded even though their living conditions are very cramped. There are three ways to calculate overcrowding, the one that gives the lowest number of people is the one that will be used. Please watch our video for further guidance.