Overview
The NHF Audit & Risk Conference highlighted key challenges and priorities for housing associations in a complex economic and regulatory environment. The focus was on financial resilience, governance, compliance, operational readiness and data, data, data…
Just some Key Themes & Considerations:
Economic Outlook: Residents are increasingly experiencing affordability stress, compounded by rising living costs and stagnant wages. In-work poverty is a growing concern, meaning that many households with employment still struggle to meet basic housing costs. This raises an important question: are current affordability measures and support mechanisms designed to capture the needs of those in work as effectively as those who are unemployed or on benefits?
Financial Reporting: These updates require a thorough review of existing policies—especially those relating to revenue recognition and lease treatment—to ensure alignment with the new standards. Beyond policy updates, organisations must assess whether their finance systems can handle off-balance sheet activities and accommodate new reporting lines within the chart of accounts. For lease based providers, this will be resource intensive and highlights the need for training and support to comply with the changes.
Regulatory Expectations: A mindset of continuous inspection readiness rather than treating compliance as a one-off exercise. This means embedding strong assurance processes into business-as-usual activities and ensuring that evidence provided to regulators is not only available but robust and verifiable. There was an increased emphasis on Value for Money (VFM), particularly in a climate of tight financial constraints where providers are expected to deliver more with limited resources. Additionally, the Assets & Liabilities Register should be treated as a live management tool rather than a contingency measure, supporting proactive risk management and strategic planning.
Data integration: Many associations struggle with fragmented systems that do not communicate effectively, creating gaps in assurance and operational oversight. Investing in technology that enables accurate, accessible, and connected data will be essential for meeting regulatory standards and supporting informed decision-making across governance, compliance, and service delivery.
Awaabs Law: Shift to household-focused solutions rather than solely on property focused solutions; proactive property analysis; together with ethical data use raises further risks and considerations.
In summary – to remain resilient in a challenging environment, housing associations must prioritise strong governance and comprehensive risk oversight. This includes ensuring that decision-making frameworks are robust and that boards have the right skills to manage emerging risks effectively. Regulatory scrutiny is increasing, so proactive compliance planning and clear accountability are essential to maintain confidence and meet sector-wide standards.
Equally important is the investment in integrated data systems and high-quality evidence to support transparency and informed decisions. Associations should balance resources carefully between new development and the maintenance of existing homes, aligning spending with long-term strategic goals. By strengthening governance, improving data capability, and managing competing priorities, organisations can position themselves for sustainable growth and regulatory assurance.
For further advice and information please contact
Angela Ward – Director – Housing – angela.ward@tiaa.co.uk