TSA Regulatory Framework – last chance to have your say

The new regulator of social housing, the Tenant Services Authority (“TSA”), has now published its proposed regulatory framework for social housing in England.

This consultation document constitutes part III of the TSA’s ‘national conversation’ on the standards social housing providers will have to meet from 1 April 2010.  The consultation on the TSA’s proposals is being carried out in order for it to establish whether those proposals best meet the objectives set for the TSA by parliament. 

The consultation paper sets out 6 standards that will apply to all social housing providers.  They describe the outcomes the TSA wish to see delivered and the specific requirements the TSA expects all providers to comply with.  Each standard contains within it a number of minimum requirements which must be met.  The 6 proposed standards are:

• Tenant involvement and empowerment
• Home
• Tenancy
• Neighbourhood and community
• Value for money
• Governance and financial viability (this standard does not apply to local authorities)

The TSA has stated that it welcomes views on its proposals from anyone with an interest in the future of social housing in England.  It sets out in the consultation paper specific questions to which it is seeking responses.  If you wish to engage in this ‘conversation’ with the TSA this is your last opportunity to do so before the framework is finalised in time for implementation at the start of April.  Responses to the consultation must be submitted by 5 February 2010.

Bevan Brittan has extensive expertise in the field of social housing and the issues faced by social housing providers.  If you think that you would like to submit a response to the TSA’s proposals and require some help in reviewing and interpreting the proposed framework or in preparing a response, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our housing team.