House of Commons committee seeks evidence on Social Housing Bill

Anyone with experience in social housing, a role on a local authority board or a keen interest in how homes are allocated now has the opportunity to influence upcoming policy. The House of Commons Public Bill Committee is accepting written evidence on the Social Housing Bill and is urging those with relevant expertise to submit their views promptly.

The committee will sit for the first time on Tuesday 27 October 2026, when it will begin a line‑by‑line scrutiny of the legislation. It is expected to publish its report by 5.00 pm on Tuesday 3 November 2026, although it may finish its work earlier if it chooses, after which no further written evidence will be accepted.

Part 1 of the bill (clauses 1‑12) aims to reduce the number of social homes sold under the Right to Buy scheme, removing a disincentive for local authorities to build new homes while still preserving a route to homeownership for eligible long‑standing tenants. It also introduces a duty for private registered providers to give local authorities and other registered providers at least four weeks’ notice before any sale.

Part 2 (clause 13) requires the Secretary of State to commission and publish, within 12 months of Royal Assent, a review of the operation and effectiveness of England’s shared‑ownership scheme, together with a statement setting out any proposed actions in response to the findings.

Part 3 (clause 14) strengthens protections for social‑housing tenants who are victims of domestic abuse, although the specific measures are not detailed in the brief.

Part 4 (clauses 15‑19) amends the housing‑consents process so that local authorities no longer need to seek the Secretary of State’s consent for certain stock‑management actions, and it repeals unimplemented provisions of the Housing and Planning Act 2016 that previously imposed specific obligations on local authorities.

The bill’s parliamentary journey began in the House of Lords on 14 May 2026, completed its Lords stages on 1 September 2026, and then moved to the Commons for a first reading on 2 September 2026 and a second reading on 10 September 2026.

For renters, the proposed curbs on Right to Buy could reduce opportunities to purchase their homes, while the new safeguards for abuse victims may provide greater security. Landlords and private registered providers will need to adjust to the four‑week notice requirement, which could affect their sales strategies. Overall, the legislation signals a shift towards preserving social‑housing stock and tightening oversight, a development that may influence the supply and affordability of homes across the country.