social housing

For over a decade, IVC Commercial has focused on vinyl flooring solutions that respond to the needs of all people in social housing.  By supporting well-being through comfort, design and practicality; our affordable felt-backed, acoustic, compact and safety floors continue to rise to the challenge of modern social and affordable housing.

The industry has been aware of the potential damage lead can do to the environment and health problems, particularly in infants and children for over 50 years.  Houses built before 1970 would have been constructed with lead water supply pipes and in some areas of the UK up to a third of these older properties are still receiving their water through these original lead pipes.1 UK water companies are actively engaged in replacement of these old lead supplies, and many are offering grants to residents.  

Empire View and Gantry Court are nine-storey residential blocks close to the centre of Southampton. Due to fire safety concerns, in 2021 works began to replace the existing bricks works, replacing with a rainscreen cladding system.

Ian Cochran, Head of Consultancy at Changeworks, on how the organisation is supporting housing associations in Scotland to prepare for net zero.
As the UK progresses toward ambitious climate goals, housing associations face the challenge of balancing legislative requirements with the practicalities of retrofitting their housing stock and ensuring tenant comfort. 
In Scotland, the delay in the publication of the Social Housing Net Zero Standard (SHNZS) has added an element of uncertainty for many in the sector. However, forward-thinking housing associations, supported by experts like Changeworks, are already taking action to prepare for SHNZS.

Housing associations and property managers have many responsibilities. But fundamentally, they are responsible for ensuring that their resident’s properties are safe, secure and in good condition. Ensuring this, however, can be tricky. From running water and heating to lighting and ventilation, there are a number of factors to consider. And in turn, a number of challenges to overcome. 

Damp and mould presents one of the biggest risks. It's not a new challenge, and its effects have been well documented, particularly following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak caused by prolonged exposure to mould. Following the coroner’s November 2022 report, social housing providers, including local authorities and housing associations, were asked to submit evidence about the extent of damp and mould in tenants’ homes and how they were tackling the issue. 

CHIC, a leading asset management and procurement consortium, is proud to announce the launch of its comprehensive Fire & Building Safety Framework. Designed to meet the evolving needs of its members, this framework provides a robust, compliant route to market for fire safety installations, servicing, maintenance and consultancy services.

As Business Manager of Shelforce, Howard Trotter has extensive experience of manufacturing and supplying windows, doors and fire doors to housing associations. Here, he discusses the challenges and opportunities facing the sector in 2025 and beyond.