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Simmering Discontent: Tackling the Repair Crisis in Social Housing

The Housing Ombudsman’s Repairing Trust Spotlight report has cast a harsh light on the current state of social housing in England. A staggering 474% increase in repair complaints between 2019–20 and 2024–25 reveals a growing crisis — one rooted not just in poor service, but in the failure of systems and oversight that should be protecting residents.

According to the report, nearly three-quarters of these complaints are tied to issues such as missing records, delays, misdiagnosis, and a lack of quality assurance. Ombudsman Richard Blakeway warns that- "without immediate reform, tenant frustration could escalate into lasting distrust — with real risks to safety and wellbeing."

Social Care
3 minutes
Mădălina Epure local government and technology enagbled care expert

by Mădălina Epure

Writer on Health and Social Care

Posted 12/06/2025

The Call for Stronger Oversight and Accountability

The Ombudsman’s findings point to a broader issue: too many housing processes are reactive, fragmented, and lacking in transparency. While social housing repairs are typically the remit of councils and registered providers, local authorities also play a vital role when working with private housing providers — particularly in areas of compliance, ongoing suitability, and supplier management.

This is where smarter, more connected digital tools can make a meaningful impact — not by replacing the housing repair function, but by supporting local authorities in their duty to ensure residents are living in safe, compliant homes.

How Access Adam Housing Supports Better Oversight

At Access Adam Housing, we give local authorities the tools they need to maintain control and visibility when working with private sector housing providers. Our platform is designed to support compliance monitoring, performance tracking, and supplier accountability — all critical elements in improving standards and preventing issues before they arise.

With Access Adam Housing:

  • Real-time dashboards help authorities monitor provider performance and ensure ongoing compliance with housing standards.
  • Automated workflows support effective service delivery, helping reduce bottlenecks and delays in decision-making.
  • Auditable records ensure that data is captured and reported consistently, supporting greater transparency and accountability.
  • Provider oversight tools enable local authorities to monitor and enforce suitability criteria across private housing arrangements.

These capabilities directly support local authorities as they strive to uphold tenant safety and confidence — particularly where outsourced housing provision is concerned.

A Real-World Example: Milton Keynes City Council

Milton Keynes City Council demonstrates how digital transformation can drive better outcomes in housing services. Working with The Access Group, they implemented solutions to improve visibility across their provider network, ensure compliance, and streamline supplier engagement.

Outcomes included:

  • More consistent monitoring of standards across housing providers.
  • Greater accountability through structured reporting and oversight.
  • Enhanced responsiveness through better resource allocation and planning.

This kind of partnership enables councils to focus on what matters most — ensuring that every resident has access to safe, suitable housing.

Rebuilding Confidence Through Access Adam Housing

The rise in housing repair complaints is a wake-up call — not only for housing providers, but for the wider system of oversight and accountability. While Access Adam Housing is not a repairs management tool, we play a critical role in supporting local authorities with the tools they need to uphold standards, track provider performance, and respond proactively to emerging issues.

Let’s rebuild trust through smarter, more connected housing oversight.

Contact us to learn more about how Adam Housing supports compliance and quality in outsourced housing provision.

Mădălina Epure local government and technology enagbled care expert

By Mădălina Epure

Writer on Health and Social Care

Madalina Epure is a writer at The Access Group, specializing in healthcare content. With a law degree, they bring a unique perspective, blending legal expertise with a passion for clear, impactful communication.

Their work focuses on making complex healthcare topics accessible and engaging for diverse audiences.