Welsh plan new approach to regulation

It has already asked opinions on the overall framework, which is intended to free up housing providers by focusing on self-assessment and more risk-based inspections.

This second consultation is on whether local authorities should be subject to the new system so there is a ‘common approach to regulation of social housing providers’.

Arguments for so-called domain regulation given in the consultation document include:

• Quality of housing, rent levels, and access to housing, should be comparable and consistent
• A common approach to regulation can provide a stimulus for collaborative partnership working
• Single, cross domain regulation of activities provides greater scope for clarity and consistency

The Chartered Institute of Housing Cymru has been lobbying to include councils in the new regulatory regime.

Vikki Hiscocks, policy and public affairs manager at CIH Cymru, said: ‘If you are a tenant of a social landlord we think it’s important you [can expect] the same practices regardless of who your landlord is.’

A Welsh Assembly Government spokesperson said: ‘In 2007 the deputy minister for housing and regeneration, Jocelyn Davies, commissioned the Essex review of affordable housing in Wales.

‘It made a number of key recommendations which included that a new, fit for purpose Welsh Assembly Government regulatory framework was needed for housing associations in Wales.

‘The sector as a whole supported the view that a lighter touch, risk based regulatory system was required which recognised the maturity and capability of the housing association sector and moved away from a more prescriptive WAG approach. This consultation is another step towards this new system.’

The consultation will run until 19 May but the new regulatory framework is expected to be in place for housing associations from the beginning of the 2010/11 financial year.

Have your say

You must sign in to make a comment