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New RSH report identifies poor data management in governance and consumer downgrades
A poor understanding of tenants’ homes has been an “important theme” in governance downgrades, as the failing has contributed to almost three-quarters of all C3 and C4 consumer judgements.
New RSH report identifies poor data management in governance and consumer downgrades #UKhousingIn its latest focus report, the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) underlined the importance of social landlords knowing the condition of their stock and said it was “essential for keeping tenants safe”.
Almost all the C3 and C4 judgements “related at least in part to the landlord failing to meet the safety and quality standard”, which covers stock quality records.
Several C2 gradings were also made “at least in part” due to gaps in stock condition survey coverage.
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The RSH said some landlords that had been handed governance downgrades had not used data to support key decisions such as long-term investment planning.
Landlords with a better understanding of their stock are more likely to provide better value for money “by proactively addressing potential issues through planned major repairs, rather than fixing issues responsively”.
They are also able to triangulate data to “inform long-term financial planning and stress-test business plans”, and have effective governance processes.
Overall, the RSH found that landlords’ understanding of their stock is improving. On average, landlords have reported surveying 75% of their homes in the past five years as of 31 March 2024, compared with 68% in March 2023.
In 2023-24, 87% of housing associations said they had undertaken a stock condition survey and physically inspected more than half a million homes.
“However, for some, there is still significant progress to be made. No landlord can afford to be complacent in understanding its stock condition and resolving issues quickly,” the report said.
Kate Dodsworth, chief of regulatory engagement at the RSH, said: “Many social landlords are putting significant time and resources into understanding and improving the quality of tenants’ homes.
“This is a crucial requirement of our standards and underpins good governance, sound financial decision-making, delivering value for money, and providing good-quality homes and services for tenants.
“Having a strong understanding of tenants’ homes enables landlords to provide more and better homes for people who need them. All landlords should read this report and use the findings to improve their approach.”
Housing minister Matthew Pennycook announced a consultation on a new Decent Homes Standard for the social and private rented sectors earlier this month.
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