NHF response to rent caps and 2022 Autumn Statement

Responding to the announcement today that a cap of 7% will be applied to social rents in 2023/24, Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, says: 

“Housing associations are deeply aware of the financial pressures facing their residents. 

“The sector has made a commitment that no tenant will be evicted because of financial hardship where they are engaging with their housing association. Each housing association also has tailored support in place to help residents who are struggling with the cost of living. 

“The National Housing Federation supports the government’s decision to cap social rent increases at 7% in 2023/24. We are also very pleased that the government has announced an exemption from the rent cap for supported housing providers, which will ensure the future viability of care and support for some of the most vulnerable people in the country. The overwhelming majority of tenants who use these specialist services will have their rent increase met in full by housing benefits or Universal Credit. 

“With the certainty these decisions provide, housing associations representing 80% of shared ownership homes are also committing to cap rent increases for shared owners at 7% in 2023/24, matching the social rent cap.  

“The extra £6bn for energy efficiency measures is a welcome and necessary step which will help housing associations in their mission to decarbonise their homes. We are also pleased to see additional funding pledged for tenants who use alternative fuel types, which we have been engaging with government on.

“We know any additional costs will be difficult for residents. We strongly welcome the government’s decision to increase benefits by 10.1%, something we’ve been calling for. We urge tenants and shared owners who are struggling with bills to contact their housing associations to find out what support is available.”