Changes to our social and affordable rents from April 2025

So that we can continue to invest in your homes, services and communities, we’ll be increasing rents across our social and affordable rented homes this year.

Published: 28/01/2025

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We set rents in line with the government’s formula, which is based on inflation (the Consumer Price Index, CPI) plus 1%. With CPI at 1.7% in September 2024, this means rents for social and affordable rented homes will increase by 2.7% from April 2025.

For intermediate market rent (IMR) homes, which include former Crown Estate properties, rents will rise by 3.2%. Rents for these homes are linked to September’s Retail Price Index (RPI) plus 0.5%.

If you’re a shared ownership resident, rent increases will depend on the terms of your individual lease.

Service charges are calculated based on the cost of the services we provide. 

Why are we increasing rents?

Like most other housing associations, we’ve decided to increase rents so we can continue to invest in our existing homes, services and communities, as well as build more much-needed social homes.

We carry out over 1,000 repairs every day and have introduced a local repairs service, with one contractor managing most repairs and maintenance in each area.

Last year, we spent £171m on repairs and maintenance and an additional £200m on major improvements. Our Repairs team completed 232,447 repairs, with 80% of residents satisfied according to surveys conducted after each job.

As the cost of delivering our services has gone up, we need to raise rents by the allowed amount.

What happens next?

From 31 January, you’ll receive a letter outlining your new rent and service charges from April.

The letter will clearly explain how your new rent has been calculated.

If you pay service charges, the letter will detail the costs for things like cleaning and maintaining communal areas.

We’ve worked with residents and our Resident Board Members to make sure the letters are clear and easy to understand.

What to do if you’re struggling

We understand that times are tough for many people, and we’re here to help.

Our teams can give advice on:

• Advice on benefits and grants you may be entitled to
• Help with managing debt and budgeting
• Guidance on training and job opportunities
• Tips to save on energy and utility bills
• Support to improve your physical and mental wellbeing.

Find out about just some of the ways we can support you.