Posted 20.02.17
Scottish Housing Regulator: Article link
The Scottish Housing Regulator has highlighted to tenant participation specialists how important it is for landlords to consult with tenants each year about how much rent they pay.
Speaking at the Scottish Housing Network's Tenant Participation Forum in Inverkeithing, Kathleen McInulty, Assistant Director of Regulation (Governance and Performance), said:
"The amount of rent tenants have to pay is one of the most important decisions that landlords need to consult with their tenants about.
"Last year, we published our thematic inquiry report on rent consultation. We found that some landlords consult well with tenants about rent levels, but others need to do more to talk to tenants about what level of rent is affordable and how tenants want their rent to be spent."
In her speech, Kathleen called on landlords to speak to their tenants, provide clear information, and listen to their views.
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Posted 09.02.17
Homes and Communities Agency: Article link
The Homes and Communities Agency has launched a statutory consultation to clarify and strengthen one of its consumer standards.
The Regulator is also publishing information to help providers understand how it will manage the transition to the new notifications and registrations requirements, which will replace the consents regime.
From 6 April 2017, the de-regulatory measures of the Housing and Planning Act 2016 will come into force. This means that registered providers will no longer have to obtain the Regulator's consent to undertake disposals, restructures, and certain constitutional changes.
As a consequence to the consents powers being withdrawn, the Regulator is proposing to strengthen the Tenant Involvement and Empowerment Standard to ensure that providers carry out effective consultation with the tenants affected.
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Posted 04.02.17
TPAS: Article link
TPAS has launched its first annual engagement survey. The aim is to find out the national profile of organisations and individuals who are making a significant contribution to tenant and community engagement across the country.
The survey is being conducted independently for Tpas by PML Group and a report will be published in March 2017.
This first survey marks the start of a journey where year on year TPAS hope to map the changing face of tenant and community engagement.