The recent closure of the Government’s Supported Housing regulation Consultation marks an important step toward ensuring safe and decent housing in a sector that is too often overlooked. The sector plays an important part in assisting some of the most vulnerable people in getting their lives back on track.

The consultation, which ran from 20 February to 15 May 2025, sought views on implementing the Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act 2023. This Act empowers the Secretary of State to introduce a licensing regime for supported housing and to set enforceable National Supported Housing Standards across England. It also places a duty on local housing authorities to develop supported housing strategies, assessing current provision and forecasting future needs.

For local authorities, these proposed changes present a significant opportunity to enhance local oversight, eliminate substandard provision, and ensure that public funds are directed toward housing that is safe, suitable, and supportive. However, successful implementation will depend on more than just new legislation, it will rely on how these powers are used in practice. As we await the outcome, lessons from existing licensing schemes should be learned.

Inspections matter

Experience from other housing licensing schemes tells us that inspections are key. A scheme that exists only on paper will not deliver meaningful change. It’s the act of going through the front door, inspecting conditions first-hand, and verifying compliance that drives out poor-quality providers. Without this, enforcement is toothless, and the risks to vulnerable tenants remain.

Building on what works

Local authorities have already shown how licensing can raise standards and protect tenants. These lessons must inform how the new supported housing framework is delivered. The best providers want to see poor practice removed, and they want transparency around how and why this happens.

Highlighting examples of both best practice and failure is important. It builds trust in the system and demonstrates that real change is possible when regulation is properly implemented.

Clear guidance, visible impact

When the new regulations come into force, local authorities will need clear guidance on how the new standards and licensing powers should be applied. Just as importantly, tenants and providers alike must understand how the system will benefit those it is designed to support.

This is a chance to rebalance the sector. To put the needs and safety of residents first. To ensure public funding supports quality, not exploitation. And to give councils the tools, and the backing, they need to drive that change.