How to implement Social Rent convergence
We are seeking views on a new Direction to the Regulator of Social Housing in relation to social housing rent policy from 1 April 2026 that includes Social Rent convergence.
Following the consultation on future social housing rent policy published in 2024, we are seeking views on a draft Direction to the Regulator of Social Housing that includes Social Rent convergence.
The Direction would require the Regulator to set a regulatory standard on rents that will apply to Registered Providers of social housing. This comprises:
- Private Registered Providers (including housing associations that are Private Registered Providers)
- Local authority Registered Providers (i.e. local authorities with retained housing stock)
Section 197 of the Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 gives the Secretary of State the power to direct the Regulator of Social Housing to set a standard on rent, and about the content of that standard. Once issued, a Direction is binding on the Regulator. We propose to use this power to issue a new Direction to the Regulator on rent. The proposed Direction has been published alongside this consultation.