RICS CEO comments on government's social housing plans

RICS CEO Justin Young commented on the UK Government’s Social and Affordable Homes Programme.

He said:

“The growing housing affordability gap and acute social housing shortages demand action and this significant investment in both areas demonstrates that the Government is taking this matter seriously.

"Housing supply and affordability are not the only important matters. Housing quality is a key concern and modernising the Decent Homes Standard is a forward step in the right direction. We are developing a social housing stock condition survey, which is another part of the puzzle.

“It is pleasing to see the Government commit to social housing that is energy efficient by updating Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards. Rising energy costs as well as net zero targets call for greater energy efficiency in social housing. This should lower bills for some of the most financially vulnerable and reduce carbon emissions.

“The fact that the Government is focusing on several key pillars to improve social housing demonstrates a fully-fledged vision for social housing that is necessary for successful transformation. RICS continues to work closely with the Government to ensure that social homes are safe, secure and sustainable.”

-ENDS-

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (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.

For more information:

Kris Hicks
khicks@rics.org

press@rics.org