Barnet Homes has achieved the highest possible rating of 'C1' from the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH), a significant endorsement of its performance and commitment to tenants. This top grading signifies that Barnet Homes is delivering the required outcomes of the RSH's consumer standards for tenants.
The RSH's assessment highlighted Barnet Homes' dedication to treating tenants with fairness and respect, its strong understanding of the condition of its 9,000 social housing properties, and its proactive steps to comply with statutory health and safety requirements.
The collaborative approach between Barnet Council and Barnet Homes has been instrumental in achieving these positive outcomes. This partnership has led to tangible benefits for residents, including the successful securing of four closure orders in Grahame Park, Edgware, Colindale, and Muswell Hill. These orders addressed properties linked to drug activity, illegal use, drug use, and serious anti-social behaviour, with Greg Terefenko, Head of Housing Management at Barnet Homes, noting these as significant successes.
Furthermore, the collaboration has facilitated the rehousing of vulnerable residents. On the Bell Vue estate, four residents who vacated premises being used by criminals were successfully rehoused, providing much-needed relief to neighbours impacted by anti-social behaviour. Tenant satisfaction measures are also performing well against peers, with 4.52% of cases per 1000 being below the median.
Barnet Homes' strong performance is further evidenced by a recent internal audit by Mazars, which resulted in zero recommendations, indicating a very strong service. The RSH also noted the collaborative approach between Barnet Council and Barnet Homes in identifying issues and implementing plans for improvement, which are demonstrably delivering positive outcomes.
While Barnet Homes has achieved the highest 'C1' rating, there are still areas for refinement. Following a review, the methodology for reporting Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) cases will be addressed. Greg Terefenko explained that this change will likely result in a significant spike in reported ASB cases at panel meetings, but this will be due to a reporting methodology change rather than an actual increase in incidents.
Additionally, regarding the DAHA accreditation, more work is needed on Housing Management's processes before Bronze accreditation can be awarded.
The 'C1' grading places Barnet Homes among a small number of London councils to have received the RSH's top grading to date. However, a broader comparison to social housing providers across the UK is not currently available.
For further details on community safety performance, refer to the Community Safety Partnership CSP Performance Update Q3.
