HOUSING

Autumn Statement: Social housing rent rise capped at 7%

Social landlords could see losses of £4.9bn in rental income over the next five years after the chancellor confirmed rents will be capped at 7% next year in his Autumn Statement.

Social landlords could see losses of £4.9bn in rental income over the next five years after the chancellor confirmed rents will be capped at 7% next year in his Autumn Statement.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has confirmed social housing rent increases will be capped under inflation at 7% in 2023/24.

The Government consulted on the proposed social rent cap earlier this year, suggesting either a 3%, 5% or 7% cap.

A government impact assessment published in August revealed that a 7% cap would reduce rental income by £4.9bn. Figures seen previously by The MJ revealed this cap would see London boroughs lose £223m over two years.

The Local Government Association (LGA) previously warned that any rent cap would not benefit the majority of council tenants directly because 60% receive housing benefit.

Instead, it argued the move would be a saving for the Department for Work and Pensions even though councils would have to cope with the impact of the lost income.

Moody's also warned the cap would put extra financial pressure on social landlords. Analyst for Moody's, Maylis Chapellier, said: 'The announced temporary ceiling on social housing rent increases at 7% next year is credit negative for housing associations and local authorities with social housing stock in England as it will constrain their revenue growth while they grapple with high inflationary pressures and the need to spend to address regulated standards on quality, safety and energy-efficiency.'

However, Mr Hunt said the cap would help protect households across the country from the rising cost of living.

HOUSING

Right to Buy applications rise eats into social housing supply, LGA warns

By Izzy Lepone | 14 May 2025

A rise in Right to Buy (RTB) applications is putting pressure on councils attempting to deliver affordable social housing, the Local Government Association (...

HOUSING

Call for pensions to provide housing boost

By Emily Twinch | 14 May 2025

The £392bn invested in the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) could be used to plough necessary funds into social and affordable homes, a think-tank has ...

HOUSING

Unbolting the stable door towards affordable housing

By Jonathan Werran | 14 May 2025

Localis chief executive Jonathan Werran sets out how the LGPS megafund reforms can help address the housing crisis.

HOUSING

Temporary housing figures hit new high

By Martin Ford | 30 April 2025

The number of people living in temporary accommodation has reached a new record level.

Popular articles by Laura Sharman