The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has published revised standards intended to significantly increase transparency for social housing tenants in England and elevate service quality across the sector. These new measures, which include updated Transparency, Influence and Accountability standards, are the result of a comprehensive consultation process and will become effective from October 2026.
A key component of these changes is the Social Tenant Access to Information (STAIRs) requirement. This initiative is designed to provide tenants of private registered providers (PRPs) with similar access to information regarding the management of their social housing as that currently enjoyed by local authority tenants. PRPs will be mandated to proactively publish specific information about their operations, and tenants will gain the right to formally request relevant details and expect timely responses.
In a move to drive greater professionalism, the RSH has also introduced a distinct Competence and Conduct (C&C) standard. Initially considered as part of the broader Transparency, Influence and Accountability standard, the RSH opted for a separate C&C standard following consultation feedback, aiming to enhance its visibility for both tenants and landlords. This standard will ensure that relevant housing staff possess the necessary skills, knowledge, experience, and behaviours to deliver high-quality services. Furthermore, senior housing managers and executives will be required to hold, or be actively working towards, a housing management qualification.
Jonathan Walters, Chief Executive of RSH, commented on the changes, stating that "Greater transparency, stronger accountability and a stronger tenant voice are at the heart of these changes." He added that these measures represent "an important step towards improving outcomes for social housing tenants, helping residents better see and influence the services they receive." The aim is to foster a culture where tenant voices are heard, trust is strengthened, and factors contributing to stigma are reduced.
The introduction of these standards follows directives from the government, with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) having previously consulted on C&C and STAIRs. The RSH's consultation ensured these governmental directions were accurately reflected in the new regulatory framework. While the new standards officially come into force in October 2026, some elements of the STAIRs and C&C requirements will benefit from transition periods to allow providers to adapt fully.