In a regulatory notice released today, the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has determined that Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust (JRHT) has breached the rent standard, leading to the overcharging of tenants.
The breach arose from the incorrect classification of some homes as supported housing by JRHT, resulting in tenants facing unjustified rent increases. Upon conducting detailed follow-on investigations, the housing provider also uncovered errors in the setting of rents for numerous ‘fair rent’ tenancies.
Taking responsibility for these discrepancies, JRHT self-referred to the Regulator of Social Housing and is actively collaborating with external advisors to address and rectify the issues at hand. Part of their remedial efforts includes a comprehensive review of rent-setting practices across all properties under their management. JRHT is committed to identifying and reimbursing tenants who have been overcharged while ensuring that future rent policies align with regulatory requirements.
Karen Doran, Director of Regulatory Engagement at RSH, expressed concern over JRHT’s failure to set rents correctly, emphasising the impact on tenants who have been overcharged. Doran noted that the housing trust is now working in cooperation with the regulator to rectify the situation and ensure accurate rent charges moving forward.
