Rising maintenance costs in social housing: How to tackle the crisis and protect your budget

The social housing sector is experiencing a significant rise in maintenance and repair costs, with an increase of 15% reported from 2023 to 2024.

This surge is primarily attributed to prioritising damp and mould remediation work, among other factors. Understanding the reasons behind these rising costs and exploring effective strategies for managing them is crucial for housing associations, local authorities, and policymakers.

These insights provide opportunities to tailor financial solutions that address social housing providers’ unique challenges.

Causes of rising maintenance costs

• Damp and mould remediation: One of the primary drivers of the increased maintenance costs is the need for extensive damp and mould remediation. Recent regulatory changes and heightened awareness of health risks associated with dampness and mould have compelled housing providers to prioritise these repairs. While necessary for tenant health and safety, this focus has led to substantial financial outlays.
• Ageing housing stock: Many social housing units are ageing, and older buildings often require more frequent and extensive repairs. From outdated plumbing and electrical systems to structural issues, the wear and tear on these properties necessitate ongoing maintenance, contributing to rising costs.
• Regulatory requirements: Increased regulatory scrutiny and stricter housing standards have resulted in higher compliance costs. Housing providers must adhere to these regulations to ensure tenant safety and avoid penalties, which often means investing more in maintenance and upgrades.
• Inflation and material costs: The broader economic environment also plays a role. Inflation, coupled with rising costs of construction materials and labour, has driven up the expenses associated with maintenance and repairs. This economic pressure is felt across the entire housing sector, further straining budgets.
• Environmental factors: Climate change and extreme weather events are exacerbating maintenance issues. For instance, increased rainfall can worsen damp and mould problems, while extreme temperatures can strain heating and cooling systems. These environmental challenges require proactive maintenance strategies, adding to overall costs.

Effective strategies for managing rising costs

1. Preventive maintenance programs: Implementing preventive maintenance programs can help identify and address potential issues before they become major problems. Regular inspections and early interventions can reduce the severity and cost of repairs, extending the lifespan of housing assets.
2. Investment in modernisation: Modernising housing stock can mitigate long-term maintenance costs. Upgrading heating, plumbing, and electrical systems and improving insulation can reduce the frequency of repairs and improve energy efficiency, leading to cost savings over time.
3. Utilisation of technology: Leveraging technology can enhance maintenance efficiency. For example, using data analytics to predict maintenance needs, employing smart home devices to monitor property conditions, and adopting digital platforms for maintenance management can streamline processes and reduce costs.
4. Collaboration and shared services: Housing associations and local authorities can collaborate to share services and resources. Pooling expertise and resources for maintenance tasks can lead to economies of scale, reducing individual costs. Joint procurement of materials and services can also result in cost savings.
5. Tenant engagement and education: Engaging tenants in the maintenance process and educating them on how to properly care for their homes can help prevent issues. Providing guidance on ventilation, heating, and cleanliness can reduce the incidence of damp and mould, lowering remediation costs.
6. Accessing funding and grants: Exploring available funding options and grants for maintenance and energy efficiency upgrades can alleviate financial burdens. Government programs and incentives aimed at improving housing conditions can provide much-needed financial support for maintenance projects.
7. Long-term financial planning: Adopting a long-term financial planning approach is essential. Housing providers should create comprehensive maintenance budgets that account for future needs and potential cost increases. This strategic planning can ensure that funds are allocated effectively and reduce the impact of unforeseen expenses.

In summary

The rise in maintenance and repair costs in the social housing sector is a growing concern for housing associations (HAs) and local government landlords. Contributing factors include the urgent need for damp and mould remediation, ageing housing stock, regulatory requirements, inflation, and environmental challenges.

UK Government policies such as the Social Housing Regulation Act and Decent Homes Standard underscore the need for preventive maintenance programs, modernisation, and the use of technology, along with increased tenant engagement to deliver homes that are fit for purpose.

The introduction of the Building Safety Act (2022), following the Grenfell Tower disaster, has added further pressure, particularly for landlords of multi-storey buildings. The Act emphasises fire safety and structural risks, requiring landlords to comply with stricter regulations, including regular building safety checks and fire risk assessments. These compliance requirements have resulted in additional financial challenges, prompting many housing providers to explore collaborations, access funding, and engage in long-term financial planning.

Given the complexity of these issues, housing providers are increasingly seeking innovative solutions that help streamline operations, improve tenant engagement, and maintain financial stability. Leveraging technology and adopting comprehensive financial strategies can help providers manage cash flow, reduce arrears, and forecast expenses more accurately, ensuring both quality housing provision and sustainable operations for the future.