The names of the 25 associations will remain secret until the launch – possibly at the National Housing Federation's annual conference in Birmingham on 24-26 September. Only associations with more than 1000 properties are eligible.
Stephen Howlett, chief executive of housing association Amicus and the driving force behind the initiative, said: "The major function of this scheme is to create a customer-focused quality standard to allow associations to increase their performance and service to tenants.
"It will be a tough regime that will hopefully enable a better public impression of the work done by associations. It will dovetail well with the agenda being pursued in the NHF's rebranding, Housing's Better Future."
The scheme, which is based on a similar model that has been successful in the Netherlands, will initially be called Quality Housing Services. Interest in it was boosted by an article in Housing Today (28 February, page 7).
The membership criteria are being finalised but they are likely to include the quality of repairs and stock management. Those that reach the standard will be awarded a kitemark-type logo.
It will be a tough regime that will hopefully enable a better public impression
Stephen Howlett, Amicus
Howlett estimates that the average membership fee will be £8000 a year. Fees will, however, be based on a sliding scale depending on the number of properties managed by an association – the more they own the higher the fee.
Howlett has held informal discussions with the Audit Commission, which he says have gone well.
It is understood that the commission has no plans to give associations with the quality logo "lighter touch" inspections. However, Howlett is hopeful that the commission will change its mind, as this would allow it to concentrate on poorer performing councils and associations.
A chief executive for the scheme will be appointed "in the next few weeks".
Source
Housing Today
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