2024 was a particularly challenging year for housing providers. With gilt rates continuing to rise and a volatile financial market, the costs of borrowing for housing providers increased significantly. Housing providers found themselves with competing demands for spend, causing them to be stretched thin financially, with a number having to make amendments to their financial covenants. London providers were hit the worst as significant repair costs for tower blocks continued to cause issues.  

Elsewhere, the introduction of the Tenant Satisfaction Measures and the new Consumer Standard rating meant many associations were focusing their attention on compliance. As a result, new development was significantly reduced in 2024, with many associations choosing to consolidate their assets and rethink their financial and security strategies. However, in more positive news, the new Labour government committed to building £1.5 million homes over the next parliament and has gone out to consultation on a long-term rent settlement. They have given the clear message that they are committed to social housing, and it is now time for the housing providers to get out there and start building again.

So, what should housing providers consider to ensure they are best placed to thrive in 2025?

In this Housing Forward View, our experts consider the pressing issues for the housing sector in 2025.  

• Governance
• Finance
• Security charging
• The Shared Ownership Code
• Construction
• Reforms to the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954