The government's new Competence and Conduct Standard for social housing will require certain senior housing professionals to hold, or be working towards, relevant housing management qualifications as part of a wider drive to improve professionalism, service quality and tenant outcomes across the sector. The standard forms part of the government's response to recommendations arising from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and broader reforms designed to improve the quality and safety of social housing.
From October 2026, social housing providers will need to ensure that relevant senior staff are qualified or enrolled on approved programmes, with transition periods allowing organisations time to comply. Senior housing managers will generally require a Level 4 qualification, while senior housing executives will be expected to work towards a Level 5 qualification.
To help professionals and organisations prepare, Reed Business School offers a range of Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) qualifications, including:
These industry-recognised qualifications are designed to develop the knowledge, skills and professional competence needed to meet the evolving demands of the housing sector.
Don't wait until the deadline
With increased demand for qualified housing professionals expected as the implementation date approaches, now is the ideal time to start planning your professional development. By enrolling early, learners can benefit from flexible online or classroom learning options, spread their workload over time, enhance their career prospects, and ensure they are well-prepared for the evolving regulatory landscape.
As a Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) approved centre, Reed Business School is authorised to deliver recognised housing qualifications that support compliance with the new Competence and Conduct Standard while helping learners build the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the sector.
Discover how our CIH qualifications can benefit you, your team, or your organisation. Enquire today via the form below or contact Ross Mackenzie, Business Development Manager, for personalised advice on the right qualification for your needs and information on our early bird 10% discount. Start preparing for the future of social housing today.