Research and analysis

Summary of evaluation of RSH's In-depth assessment process – IFF report

Published 8 April 2021

Applies to England

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This is a summary of the key findings of a report by IFF Research, which was commissioned by the Regulator of Social Housing to evaluate its In depth assessments process.

Executive summary

  • The professionalism and conduct of In Depth Assessment teams were consistently praised, as was their knowledge and approach.
  • The IDA was felt to be an important element of regulating the economic standards, alongside quarterly surveys and annual stability checks.
  • Registered providers would benefit from greater guidance on the level and depth of their evidence submission.
  • RPs consistently felt the IDA followed the guidance set out in Regulating the Standards.
  • Some RPs were surprised by their regulatory grading, typically in the case of downgrades.
  • All RPs mentioned making some changes as result of the IDA process, most commonly in the areas of stress testing and mitigation planning, risk management and board reporting.
  • The investigative depth of the IDA process was occasionally questioned. The success of the IDA process was felt to be contingent on the RP being willingly transparent and honest.
  • RPs would greatly value written as well as verbal feedback from the IDA process.
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