The Government has approved a new statutory Code designed to raise standards in leasehold retirement housing and improve the lives of older residents
The Association of Retirement Housing Managers (ARHM) has secured ministerial approval on its new Private Retirement Housing Code of Practice.
The Code, which comes into force on 1 June, sets out the statutory obligations for managers, and the best practice they should follow.
From 1 June residents who have bought or who are renting one of the 100,000 plus homes managed by ARHM members across England will have the additional reassurance that their manager is committed to delivering best practice.
The Code will be made available as a public document so it may be accessed and used by anyone to help resolve a dispute with their manager.
Richard Wheeldon, Chair of the ARHM, said: “We are delighted that there is now updated protection for residents and a new benchmark for our members to meet. The changes demand a better service for residents and also enables great managers to demonstrate their commitment to excellent service.
“Compliance with the Code is a sign that a manager – whether private or a registered housing provider – is delivering to the highest standard. As a consumer, if you think your manager is not delivering a high standard, then the Code clearly tells you what you should expect should you need to challenge them.
By following the Code, managers demonstrate they provide a professional and effective service to their residents, have appropriate training for their staff and are fair in their response to any concerns or complaints. All leasehold retirement schemes should have a copy of the code available for leaseholders and their visitors.
A free copy of the code can be downloaded from www.arhm.org from 1 June and will be officially launched in London on 7 June.
To find out if your management company is a member of ARHM click here
