RSH sets new standards to drive improvements in social housing
The proposed new consumer standards are designed to protect tenants and improve the service they receive. The will apply to all social landlords
Today (29 February 2024) RSH has set out its new standards for social housing landlords, designed to protect tenants and improve the service they receive. RSH has also confirmed how it will regulate landlords against these standards.
The changes, which are a result of the landmark Social Housing Regulation Act, come into effect from 1 April 2024. They will apply to all social landlords, including councils and housing associations.
Under the new standards landlords will need to:
- ensure tenants are safe in their homes
- listen to tenants’ complaints and respond promptly to put things right
- be accountable to tenants and treat them with fairness and respect
- know more about the condition of every home and the needs of the people who live in them
- collect and use data effectively across a range of areas, including repairs
Most social housing tenants live in decent homes, but RSH is clear that all landlords can improve. To hold landlords to account, it will:
- inspect larger landlords regularly to check they are meeting the outcomes in the standards
- scrutinise data about tenant satisfaction, repairs and other relevant issues
- continue to push landlords to protect tenants and put things right when there are problems
- use a range of tools when needed, including new enforcement powers
- continue to focus on the financial viability and governance of housing associations as part of its integrated regulation
RSH has engaged extensively with tenants, landlords and other stakeholders in developing this stronger approach. Over 1,000 people took part in RSH’s standards consultation, with more than 50% of responses coming from tenants. The overwhelming majority of people supported the proposals.
The inspection programme will start from April and run in four-year cycles.
Along with the inspections, RSH will continue its responsive engagement, considering cases referred by tenants and other stakeholders, and taking action against landlords when required.
Fiona MacGregor, Chief Executive of RSH, said:
"Social landlords must keep tenants safe in their homes, listen to what they say and put things right when needed. We are introducing new standards to drive improvements in social housing, and we will actively inspect landlords to check they are meeting them.
"We have spoken to thousands of tenants and other stakeholders who have helped shape our new approach, and we are extremely grateful for their input and involvement. It is vital that landlords make sure they are ready."