Government propose new laws to mandate professional qualifications for social housing managers

Today, Housing Secretary Michael Gove has announced an amendment to the Social Housing Bill mandating that social housing managers must gain professional qualifications under new rules to protect residents and raise standards in the sector. 

This will bring social housing more closely into line with other sectors providing front line services, including social work, teaching, and health and care services. Any landlord who fails to meet the requirements of the new standards could be fined by the regulator.

Gavin Smart, chief executive of the Chartered Institute of Housing responded to the announcement stating:

“As the professional body for housing, the Chartered Institute of Housing is committed to supporting professionalism across the housing sector - it is at the heart of all we do. We welcome the government’s focus on and support for professionalism in housing.

“We believe housing professionals should do all they can to ensure that tenants and residents have access to good quality, affordable homes; that they are treated with dignity and respect; and that their voices and views are heard and taken account of in decisions that affect them, their homes and the communities they live in and that the vast majority of housing professionals and organisations share this belief. Today’s announcement complements work already underway following recommendations set out by the Better Social Housing Review in late 2022, highlighting the need for skilled and experienced staff members in key roles.

“We look forward to working with government, the regulator and with the sector to support organisations and individuals in achieving the qualifications needed under these new requirements.”

The Bill is the latest step in response to the Grenfell Tower fire, following on from the Fire Safety Act and last year’s Building Safety Act. It will return to Parliament on the 1 March.

Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Michael Gove said:   

“The Grenfell Tower tragedy and, more recently, the death of Awaab Ishak showed the devastating consequences of residents inexcusably being let down by poor performing landlords.

“We know that many social housing residents are not receiving the service or respect they deserve.

“The changes we are delivering today will make sure social housing managers across the country have the right skills and experience to deliver an excellent service and drive up standards across the board.”