Jonathan Walters, Chief Executive of the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH), addressed the Housing 2026 conference in Manchester on 25 June 2026, emphasising the critical role of regulation in supporting the delivery of more and higher-quality social housing. His remarks highlighted the sector’s achievements over the past decade and outlined the challenges and opportunities ahead, particularly in the context of economic uncertainty and evolving regulatory expectations.
Significant Social Housing Growth Over the Past Decade
Walters noted that the social housing sector has successfully delivered nearly 500,000 new homes in the last ten years. This growth has been accompanied by essential improvements to existing properties, addressing issues such as damp and mould, which are significant concerns for tenant health and wellbeing. These achievements have been underpinned by substantial private investment, made possible by a stable regulatory framework that prioritises strong governance and financial viability.
The stability provided by effective regulation has allowed housing associations and local authorities to plan and invest with confidence. This environment has encouraged innovation and long-term financial planning, which are crucial for sustaining the delivery of quality social homes. However, despite this progress, Walters acknowledged that demand continues to outstrip supply, with over one million households still on waiting lists across England.
Ongoing Demand and the Need for Quality Homes
The persistent shortfall in social housing stock means that many households face prolonged waits for suitable accommodation. Walters stressed the urgent need to increase the quantity and quality of social homes to meet this demand. The sector must not only build more homes but also ensure they meet modern standards for safety, energy efficiency, and tenant comfort.
This demand is compounded by broader economic pressures, including inflation and global uncertainties, which can affect construction costs and funding availability. Consequently, the sector must navigate tighter financial margins while maintaining a focus on delivering homes that are both affordable and sustainable in the long term.
Opportunities Through Additional Grant Funding
Walters highlighted the potential for landlords to benefit from increased grant funding aimed at boosting social housing supply. Such funding can provide crucial support for new developments and refurbishment projects, helping to bridge the gap between costs and rental income. However, accessing these opportunities requires careful financial planning and robust governance frameworks.
In a challenging economic climate, Walters emphasised that landlords will need to adopt rigorous risk management practices to ensure projects remain viable. This includes thorough due diligence, prudent financial forecasting, and maintaining strong oversight throughout development and management processes. These measures will be essential to safeguard the sector’s financial health and protect tenants’ interests.
Future-Proofing Economic Regulation
To support landlords in meeting these challenges, the Regulator of Social Housing is engaging in a broad consultation with the sector on how economic regulation can evolve. Walters explained that the RSH is considering proposals to become more assertive and agile in its regulatory approach. This could involve encouraging innovation and adapting regulatory tools to better support landlords in delivering more and better social homes.
The RSH has published a discussion document inviting feedback from landlords, tenants, and other stakeholders. This dialogue aims to shape a regulatory framework that balances accountability with flexibility, enabling the sector to respond effectively to changing circumstances while safeguarding tenant protections and financial stability.
What this means for landlords
For landlords and letting agents operating within or alongside the social housing sector, Walters’ remarks underline the importance of maintaining strong governance and financial management. Access to additional grant funding may provide new opportunities for development, but these will come with increased scrutiny and expectations around risk management and compliance.
Landlords should consider reviewing their governance structures and financial controls to ensure they are robust enough to meet evolving regulatory requirements. Staying informed about the RSH’s consultation and forthcoming regulatory changes will be essential for planning future investments and managing existing portfolios effectively. This is particularly relevant for those managing mixed-tenure or affordable housing schemes where social housing standards apply.
What TLA members should consider
- Review governance and financial viability frameworks to align with the RSH’s focus on strong oversight and risk management.
- Monitor opportunities for additional grant funding and assess eligibility criteria carefully to support new development or refurbishment projects.
- Engage with the RSH’s consultation process to provide feedback and stay updated on potential regulatory changes affecting social housing providers.
- Ensure compliance with existing housing standards, particularly regarding property condition issues such as damp and mould, to meet tenant expectations and regulatory requirements.
- Consider the implications of tighter economic conditions on project viability and plan accordingly to mitigate financial risks.
- Utilise resources such as the TLA Academy and the Landlord Legal Support Hub for guidance on governance, compliance, and risk management.
TLA Training Academy
The Landlord Association provides structured guidance, compliance education and practical support for landlords, letting agents and property professionals. Members can access training and resources designed to help them stay organised, informed and prepared.
Landlords can explore the Academy here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/tla-academy/
Those looking to join and access member support can register here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/get-started-with-the-landlord-association/
TLA update
The Landlord Association is continuing to expand its support, resources and partner network for landlords, tenants, agents and property professionals across the UK. Service providers interested in working with TLA can register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/
Source: www.gov.uk
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