The Regulator of Social Housing has published a risk profile setting out the main risks facing the social housing sector and some of the actions registered providers should be taking to manage those risks. It identifies risks across a range of themes, as follows:

• Providers need to invest in existing stock to ensure the continued provision of good quality homes. Boards must have robust data on stock quality ahead of changes to the Decent Homes Standard, and to support decarbonisation.
• Tenant and building safety is a key, developing responsibility. Boards will need to understand how legal requirements are changing and have assurance about health and safety so that tenants are safe in their homes.
• Demands for transparency with tenants are increasing following the Social Housing White Paper, and Boards should take action now to ensure they provide good services and to strengthen their engagement with tenants.
• The current macroeconomic climate is uncertain and Boards will need to manage their access to labour, skills, and materials – particularly as these affect services to tenants and new development.
• Increased reliance on debt means Boards need to be able to effectively monitor interest cover and gearing, manage downside risk and evaluate the financial products they choose.
• Forecasts for development have returned to pre-pandemic levels and Boards will need to manage the significant risks associated with the development and, where applicable, sale of new housing.

For the risk profile, click here.