RICS and CIH Housing Academy collaborate to support skills development in social housing

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Housing Academy are collaborating to support  RICS UK members working in social housing meet the requirements of the Competence and Conduct Standard.

From October 2026, senior housing managers and executives working in social housing in England must have either a relevant qualification in housing management or be working towards such a qualification.

For those who are partially compliant there is an option to complete ‘top up’ modules to meet the requirements.

Through the CIH Housing Academy, RICS UK members will be able to explore selected Level 4 and Level 5 top-up modules, alongside the Level 4 Certificate in Housing and Level 5 Diploma in Housing. CPD learning will also become available by Dec 2026. Subjects include customer focus, housing law and regulation, ethical practice, and leadership and management.

RICS UK members will be able to find further information by logging into their RICS member accounts.

Mairead Carroll, RICS Specialist (Property), said:

“Safe, well-managed homes depend on professionals with the right skills and an understanding of residents’ needs. Working with CIH enables our members to access learning that builds on their existing qualifications and expertise.

“This collaboration gives members practical options as they work with their employers to assess what the Standard means for their role.”

Sarah Dunkerley, CIH director of membership and professional development, said:

“The introduction of the Competence and Conduct Standard marks a significant step towards recognising and strengthening professionalism across the housing sector, helping to ensure residents receive safe, effective and accountable services. As the professional body for people who work in housing CIH are committed to working with our members and organisations across the sector to provide the knowledge, skills and support needed to meet the Standard and demonstrate their commitment to excellence. I am delighted to see this collaboration between RICS and CIH Housing Academy, which will support RICS members with the specialist housing knowledge, qualifications and skills needed to meet the Standard.”

Kirsty Cooper, Head of the CIH Housing Academy added:

“The transition period following the introduction of the Competence and Conduct Standard provides organisations with a valuable opportunity to prepare. We are delighted to be working with RICS to support its members with the qualifications, skills and knowledge they need to strengthen their professionalism and meet the expectations of the Competence and Conduct Standard.”

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About RICS

We are RICS. Everything we do is designed to effect positive change in the built and natural environments. Through our respected global standards, leading professional progression and our trusted data and insight, we promote and enforce the highest professional standards in the development and management of land, real estate, construction and infrastructure.

Our work with others provides a foundation for confident markets, pioneers better places to live and work and is a force for positive social impact.

About the CIH Housing Academy

CIH Housing Academy is the direct study centre for the Chartered Institute of Housing, and one of the largest providers of housing qualifications and training in the UK.

CIH Housing Academy specialises in housing qualifications providing a wide range of courses from levels two to five, where learners can choose between online or online plus learning methods.

Find out more about the CIH Housing Academy

For more information

Kris Hicks
Khicks@rics.org

press@rics.org