LGA backs updated Social Housing Tenure Standard but calls for clarity on introductory and flexible tenancies

This came in the LGA’s response to a Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government consultation, which applies to England and closed on 28 May.

The consultation set out proposals for a new Tenure Direction to the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) requiring it to set a regulatory standard relating to tenure, aligned with the new assured tenancy and regulatory framework.

The consultation also set out a proposal to ensure the new direction applies to all social housing provided by local housing authorities, irrespective of whether they hold a Housing Revenue Account (HRA).

However, in its response, the LGA said there is “a need for greater clarity from the Regulator on the ongoing role of introductory and flexible (fixed-term) tenancies”.

It warned that the proposals risked weakening councils’ ability to manage tenancies effectively, without corresponding changes to the financial framework of the HRA.

The LGA also called on the Government to ensure changes are coordinated with other reforms and that the full financial and operational impacts on councils are recognised and fully funded through new burdens.