The new Social Housing Regulation Act has become law, after receiving Royal Assent. The law will give authorities more power to address issues with underperforming landlords
The Social Housing Regulation Act means failing social landlords and tenants living in unsafe homes will be better supported by the regulator.
The Regulator of Social Housing will be able to conduct regular inspections of major providers and will have the authority to issue unlimited fines to landlords.
The Housing Ombudsman will be granted additional powers to publish best practice guidance for landlords following investigations into tenant complaints.
Social landlords will face strict time limits to address hazards like dampness and mould. New qualification requirements will be introduced for social housing managers. The law will also mean inappropriate financial transactions outside the social housing sector can be investigated.
The introduction of Awaab’s Law
In response to the tragic death of Awaab Ishak last year, the Government made a commitment to implement “Awaab’s Law.” This law mandates that all landlords must address reported health and safety hazards within a specific timeframe.
Two-year-old Awaab died from a respiratory condition caused by prolonged exposure to black mould in his damp one-bedroom flat in Rochdale, Greater Manchester in December 2020. The coroner’s investigation revealed that the mould exposure led to a cardiac arrest, resulting in his death.
The Act also looks to address systemic issues revealed after the Grenfell Tower tragedy
“Today is an important step towards righting the wrongs of the past. Our landmark laws will drive up standards of social housing and give residents a proper voice,” said the secretary of state for levelling up, Michael Gove MP.
“The Social Housing Act will help to ensure that tenants get the safe, warm and decent homes they deserve – and those who have seriously neglected their responsibilities for far too long will face the consequences,” he continued.
Harsher punishment for landlords under the Social Housing Regulation Act
The Social Housing Regulator can now issue unlimited fines and is authorised to enter properties with just 48 hours’ notice to carry out emergency repairs when tenants’ safety is at serious risk. The Act changes the activities for which the Regulator can charge landlords fees, making sure it has enough resources to fulfil its duties.
All social housing providers, including private registered providers and local authority landlords, will need to pay for regulation costs. This will cover expenses related to new consumer standards and investigations when issues arise.
The Regulator plans to release a consultation on the new consumer standards. The new regulations are due to be put in place in April 2024.
“We’re delighted to see that the Social Housing (Regulation) Act has now been passed and congratulate all involved in its development,” said Gavin Smart, CEO of the Chartered Institute of Housing
“The Act will provide an important foundation for giving tenants a greater voice, improving access to redress and increasing the focus on professionalism in the sector,” he concluded.
