Housing disrepair – the latest downgradings from the regulator

This month has seen another two local authorities being downgraded by the RSH, over failings in the management of their housing stock. Among the key themes highlighted were the councils not taking any action to address issues, not having up-to-date information of their housing stock condition, not keeping compliance certification up to date and not having policies in place. The regulator continues to keep pressure on Local Authorities and social landlords on disrepair failings, and we know this will only increase. Whilst there are not currently set deadlines, the imminent introduction of Awaab’s law will see strict timeframes set for landlords and increased penalties for non-compliance.

Getting on top of these issues won’t just save a local authority money in the long run, it will also massively increase chances of satisfying the regulator that there are no systemic failures taking place. Realistically, there isn’t a quick-fix for ongoing disrepair issues but the sooner you deal with claims and are seen to be addressing the repairs, the better chance there is of satisfying the regulator that the issues are in hand. Our specialist housing disrepair team are already supporting local authorities across the country, enabling compliance teams to gain full transparency of claims, settlements and related costs. But this is a widespread issue which isn’t going away, and we’re seeing increased concern about how to tackle the problem.   

The message from the regulator is clear – social landlords not addressing disrepair, stock condition and compliance certification will be investigated and downgraded. Our message is act now. 

Bevan Brittan have developed an innovative tech based solution to deal with Housing Disrepair claims and support clients to ensure they remain regulatory compliant. Read more here.