The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has published its regulatory casework review, summarising the key themes from its economic and consumer regulation over the past year and reinforcing the importance of good governance in achieving more and better social homes for tenants.
The regulator summarised a number of key priorities for all landlords, recorded through RSH’s inspections and responsive work with housing associations, other private registered providers, and councils.
Data was highlighted as a key focus point for housing providers, both through the lens of awareness and accountability when it comes to knowing residents are safe within their homes, as well as using data to drive insight and continuous improvement. A strategic value for money was also singled out as an important strength, with spending decisions linked to specific objectives and contributing to the expansion/enhancement of a providers housing stock.
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Other core priorities for housing providers were effective risk management, keeping tenants safe through early self referrals, listening to tenants’ views to inform decision-making and ensuring strong governance of financial risks and performance. The regulator reinforced that all social housing providers should use the casework to improve their services, and even though RSH’s governance requirements do not apply to councils, they can still use the lessons to improve outcomes for tenants.
Kate Dodsworth, Deputy Chief Executive at RSH, said:
“Social landlords have a crucial role to play in building more homes for people on waiting lists, while improving existing homes too.
“Two years ago, we were given a stronger role to go out and inspect landlords across the country. We are seeing very clearly that keeping tenants safe, having sound finances, and achieving value for money all depend on good governance. Landlords that prioritise quality data, stress test their plans, and address problems quickly are best placed to seize the opportunities afforded by additional grant funding – so they can build more and better social homes for tenants.”
