Introduction and timeline
STAIRs aims to increase transparency and accountability in social housing by mandating Registered Providers to give tenants and their representatives access to information concerning the management of their homes, similar to Freedom of Information (FOI) processes in the public sector. This includes data on repairs, health and safety issues, and landlord performance. Additionally, RPs would have to proactively publish certain information under a standardized publication scheme.
The consultation on STAIRs closed in July 2024 and the government is yet to publish findings or timescales for implementation.
Implications for providers:
- Similar to GDPR requirements, there will be cost implications for Registered Providers, in terms of staff time to draw together the relevant information.
- Registered Providers' partners may need the supply of information as part of its response to a STAIRs request, which will also mean additional time and cost.
