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This Month In Social Housing: July 2024

Is it just us or does time seem to go quicker in the world of social housing? It only seems like yesterday that we were in the midst of Housing 2024 but we blinked and it’s August already. If, like many in the sector, are currently enjoying a well-earned summer break but still want to keep abreast of all the major goings on within the sector then fear not because we’re back once again with one of our handy news round-ups. So, take five, grab a refreshing beverage, wipe the factor 50 off your hands and scroll through the five biggest social housing news stories from the past month in This Month In Social Housing: July 2024…

Ombudsman and RSH Outline Working Together Under New Duties

The Housing Ombudsman and the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) have formalised their collaboration under the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023 through a memorandum of understanding. The RSH will focus on setting landlord standards, while the Ombudsman will handle individual disputes and complaint procedures. Their agreement emphasises early communication, regular meetings, data sharing, and clear role delineation to improve housing services. Leaders Richard Blakeway and Fiona MacGregor highlighted the importance of this partnership in promoting sustainable improvements and tenant satisfaction. Recent research revealed significant discrepancies in complaint handling among social landlords, underscoring the need for these enhanced regulatory measures.

£17bn Debt Write-Down Required to Help Council Housing Investment Say CIH

The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) has called for a £17bn debt write-down to enable councils to invest in housing. This proposal suggests central government should absorb 61% of local authorities’ housing debt to offset lost rental income and rising costs. This would enhance councils’ spending power, allowing more investment in maintaining and building homes. A report by CIH and Savills highlighted that current Housing Revenue Accounts (HRAs) are insufficient due to historical debt settlements, inflation, the cost of living crisis, and new policy obligations. The CIH argues that this debt relief would support capital investment and repairs, benefiting both councils and the government.

NHF, CIH and LGA Tell Rayner Labour Won’t Meet Housing Target Without More Funding

Labour’s goal to build 1.5 million new homes in the current parliament is at risk without increased funding for social and affordable housing, Angela Rayner has been warned. Housing providers highlighted significant financial pressures causing delays and cancellations in new projects. A letter from the NHF, CIH, and LGA cited capped income, cuts, and rising costs as detrimental to housing budgets. Housing starts have dropped significantly, with social housing starts in London falling by 90%. The letter calls for a long-term funding plan and emergency financial support. Rayner has promised a substantial boost to affordable housing, aligning with Labour’s ambitious housing targets.

New Renters’ Rights Bill To Ban No-Fault Evictions and Extend Awaab’s Law to Private Sector

The new Renters’ Rights Bill, announced by the Labour government in the King’s Speech, will ban Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions and extend Awaab’s Law to the private sector. The legislation aims to provide greater rights and protections for renters, including ending no-fault evictions, introducing expanded possession grounds for landlords, and enabling tenants to challenge rent increases. Awaab’s Law, prompted by a tragic incident involving unsafe housing, will impose strict timelines for addressing hazards, applicable to private landlords. This bill replaces the previous Renters’ Reform Bill and reflects Labour’s commitment to enhancing security and stability for renters while ensuring landlords have fair grounds for possession.

Ombudsman Spotlight Report to Explore Building Trust in Housing Maintenance

The Housing Ombudsman is seeking input for a new report on disrepair, coinciding with the upcoming introduction of Awaab’s Law. The call for evidence targets residents, repair operatives, landlords, contractors, MPs, and councillors, addressing a significant rise in disrepair complaints due to increasing costs and skill shortages. Awaab’s Law will set statutory repair timescales and record-keeping requirements. The report, “Repairing Trust,” will explore maintenance issues, positive landlord changes, and relationships between landlords, contractors, and residents. It aims to offer practical recommendations to improve maintenance services and rebuild trust. Submissions are open until 25 October on the Ombudsman’s website.

Well, that’s everything wrapped up for another month. We’re all off to bask in the summer sun before it inevitably disappears to be replaced by the rain the weather gods love to bless good old Blighty with so often. Don’t worry though as well be back here same time next month to do this whole quick and easy news dispatch thing all over again. Until then though, tschüss!

Dean Quinn
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