Regulatory Inquiry Initiated by RSH
The Regulator for Social Housing (RSH) holds the authority to initiate an inquiry when there are suspicions regarding the management practices of a landlord. This may arise if the landlord fails to adhere to regulatory standards or if there is a potential risk of non-compliance without intervention from the regulator or the landlord itself.
Chief Executive Jonathan Walters emphasised the gravity of such inquiries, stating, “A statutory inquiry is a serious regulatory tool that we only use very rarely. This reflects the severity of our concerns with ASHA and its longstanding failure to put things right. We will use the independent findings to inform our next steps.”
ASHA, a London-based housing provider, focuses on social housing in the capital and offers supported exempt accommodation in Birmingham. As a Community Benefit Society, it operates on a not-for-profit basis. RSH has formally communicated the initiation of this inquiry to ASHA and all relevant stakeholders.
Objectives of the Inquiry
An independent inquirer will oversee the investigation, although RSH will delineate the specific aspects that require scrutiny. The inquiry is tasked with assessing several critical areas, including:
- The existence of any actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest among ASHA’s executive team or board.
- The qualifications, independence, and effectiveness of the Board and Executive in managing ASHA’s operations.
- Evidence indicating that ASHA, along with its officers, employees, or agents, has engaged in any arrangements or transactions that may benefit third parties.
- Instances where ASHA’s social housing assets may have been utilised in ways inconsistent with applicable policies, regulatory requirements, or relevant laws.
- Identifying any officers, employees, or agents of ASHA who may have contributed to mismanagement or non-compliance with relevant standards.
The inquiry maintains the flexibility to adjust its scope as required throughout the investigation.
Potential Outcomes and Next Steps
RSH possesses specific enforcement powers that come into play following the initiation of an inquiry, contingent upon meeting certain conditions. The regulator will evaluate the findings of the inquiry to determine if further regulatory actions are warranted. Upon concluding the inquiry, RSH will publicly disclose the outcomes.
A registered provider is accountable for its effective management and for achieving the standards set forth by the regulator. When deficiencies in performance are identified, the regulator expects a swift and effective response. If a provider fails to meet these expectations, it may become necessary for the regulator to intervene under the Housing and Regeneration Act 2008, as amended.
Background on ASHA’s Regulatory Challenges
In July 2021, RSH issued a regulatory notice indicating that Ash-Shahada Housing Association Limited was non-compliant with several governance standards. The notice highlighted that ASHA had failed to implement effective governance arrangements to fulfil its objectives, lacked a robust risk and control framework, and did not manage its affairs with the necessary skill and diligence.
ASHA operates with fewer than 1,000 social housing units, categorising it as a small provider. RSH does not assign grades to small providers, opting instead to publish regulatory judgements only when significant weaknesses are identified.
In 2025, RSH had previously made statutory appointments to ASHA’s board, reflecting ongoing concerns regarding its governance and operational effectiveness.
For any media inquiries, please refer to our Media Enquiries page, or for general inquiries, contact us at enquiries@rsh.gov.uk.