London boroughs have launched a new shared vision to improve social housing standards across the capital and experiences for tenants. 

Tenant satisfaction levels in social housing are lower in London than anywhere in the country, according to research from London Councils, and 57% of all damp and mould maladministration were reported in the capital. 

Just last month, Nub News reported on a pregnant Kingston mother-of-three who has been waiting months to be rehoused following dangerous mould that has grown throughout her current home, which is yet to be treated.

Produced through consultation with London local authority housing officers, councillors, and tenants from across the capital, the report Delivering for Tenants proposes five key themes for supporting an effective local authority landlord service: vision and strategy; leadership; management; performance and compliance; and assurance. 

Cllr Darren Rodwell, London Councils' Executive Member for Regeneration, Housing & Planning, said: "Boroughs are proud social landlords. Social housing is a vital part of London's infrastructure that provides affordable homes for hundreds of thousands of Londoners. 

"However, the social housing sector is under massive pressure. Too often we have seen examples of tenants living in poor-quality housing and receiving a substandard service. Our tenants deserve better. Everyone should have a home that they can be proud of. This report will help us make that ambition a reality and I am grateful to everyone – especially tenants – who contributed to putting it together. 

"When it comes to deciding the future of social housing in London, national policy and investment decisions remain fundamental factors. Boroughs will continue to work with ministers on this important agenda and push for the funding required to support our shared goals." 

The report reiterates London boroughs' commitment to ensuring tenants are listened to and services respond efficiently and effectively to their needs. 

Joanne Drew, Co-Chair of the London Housing Directors' Group, said: "No one can doubt the huge challenges facing social housing in the capital, but boroughs are working with each other and tenants to try and drive up standards. 

"Our homes and tenant services must be good quality, and our relationship with tenants needs to be positive and built on partnership. As housing leaders in the capital, we've taken the chance to reflect and identify a way forward.  

"Delivering for Tenants sets out our shared vision of how we can be most effective as council landlords.We are committed to continue listening, learning, and adapting as we raise standards and seek better outcomes for Londoners."