The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has today, 12 August 2026, upgraded East Midlands Housing (Emh) Group's consumer grade from C2 to C1. This follows responsive engagement with the regulator after an inspection in November 2024.
Emh Group demonstrated improvements in considering tenants' views in strategic decisions, as well as in customer service and complaints handling. The group also holds a governance grade of G1 and a financial viability grade of V2.
Separately, Lancaster City Council has received its first consumer grade of C2 following an RSH inspection. Weaknesses were identified in delivering the outcomes of the consumer standards, particularly in the Safety and Quality Standard and the Transparency, Influence and Accountability Standard.
While Lancaster City Council is generally delivering timely repairs, a backlog was found, with a plan to complete most overdue repairs by the end of November. The council also lacks comprehensive information on tenant characteristics and diversity, which may restrict its ability to deliver fair outcomes.