‘Ofsted-style’ inspections and unlimited fines for failing social landlords

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Social housing landlords could face unlimited fines for failing tenants

Failing social housing landlords could face unlimited fines and Ofsted-style inspections, under the Social Housing Regulation Bill introduced to Parliament on 8 June.

The Regulator of Social Housing will have stronger powers to issue unlimited fines, enter properties with only 48 hours’ notice – down from 28 days – and make emergency repairs where there is a serious risk to tenants, with landlords footing the bill.

In a major reset of power between tenants and landlords, residents will be able to demand information and rate their landlord as part of new satisfaction measures.

Tenants will have a direct line to government, with a new 250-person residents’ panel convening every four months to share their experiences with ministers, inform policy thinking and help drive change in the sector.

The Bill is the latest step in addressing the systemic issues identified following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, not just on the safety and quality of social housing, but about how tenants are treated by their landlords.

The Social Housing (Regulation) Bill being introduced removes the serious detriment test – a legislative barrier that once axed will make it easier for the Regulator to tackle poor performing landlords.

The biggest social housing providers will face regular inspections and the Levelling Up Secretary will continue to name and shame worst offenders to make sure residents are living in good quality homes.

The Bill will also mean landlords will need to have a named person who will be responsible for health and safety requirements.

Tenants of housing associations will be able to request information from their landlord, similar to how the Freedom of Information Act works for council housing.

Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, said: “Having a home that is warm and dry, safe, secure and affordable is the right of every person in this country. For social housing providers this means providing high-quality living standards in every home and carrying out repairs on time.”

“Government data shows that on average social homes are better quality than other rented homes, however we have seen instances where social housing tenants have had to live in substandard properties and this is not acceptable.”

“We welcome the aims of this bill to give tenants greater powers and improve access to swift and fair redress. Over 200 housing associations have already taken steps to strengthen relationships between residents and landlords by signing up to Together with Tenants, a sector-led initiative which sets new standards for tenant and landlord relationships.

“Alongside this, the National Housing Federation and the Chartered Institute of Housing are working together to support housing associations to take collective action on quality issues, details of which will be published imminently.”