PlaceShapers response to RSH More and Better Social Homes discussion document
5 October 2026
PlaceShapers supports a regulatory framework that is strong on outcomes, proportionate, clear about accountability and supports board autonomy.
PlaceShapers response to the Regulator’s discussion document More and Better Social Homes welcomes the ambition and recognises the important role of effective economic regulation however it urges caution about how that ambition is translated into regulation.
The discussion document is part of the Regulator’s conversation with stakeholders about the changes, challenges and tensions that exist in the social housing sector ahead of consultation on revised economic standards in 2027.
PlaceShapers response has been shaped by discussions with members, including through roundtables jointly hosted with the RSH, and in consultation with the PlaceShapers board.
Responding individually to the three discussion prompts, it concludes:
“The sector does not need regulation to create an ambition for growth. Our members understand the critical imperative to build more homes, and are committed to doing so, as evidenced by initial bids to the new Social and Affordable Homes Programme. The key constraints for many social housing providers are the availability and cost of land, funding, increasing costs, and the significant investment required in existing homes.
“The regulatory framework should create the conditions in which well-governed housing associations can make good decisions and deliver more and better social homes, rather than directing boards towards particular strategies or targets.
“We would particularly encourage the RSH to recognise that better homes are part of better places. For residents, the experience of social housing is shaped by their home, but also by the neighbourhood and opportunities around it.
“Recognising the long-term value of place and community investment would strengthen the concept of value for money and ensure that the regulatory framework reflects the full contribution that social housing can make to residents, communities and the wider economy.
“As the RSH moves to a formal consultation on the economic standards next year, we would like to see the revised standards being developed alongside the existing consumer standards, so taken together they set out clear, rather than potentially contradictory, expectations on the sector.
“PlaceShapers supports a regulatory framework that is strong on outcomes, proportionate, clear about accountability and supports board autonomy. This will provide the best foundation for our members to deliver more and better social homes while continuing to invest in the existing homes, places and communities.”