County Durham housing association Livin upgraded by social housing regulator

Livin Housing Limited, a housing association based in County Durham, has been upgraded from C2 to C1 on consumer standards in a regulatory judgement published by the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH).

The regulator found that Livin had strengthened its understanding of the condition of its homes since its inspection in November 2024. It has improved how it monitors the condition of its homes and uses that information to plan future repairs and investment. RSH said Livin also showed that it works more effectively with residents to maintain safe, good quality homes. Its G1 governance and V1 financial viability grades are unchanged, based on previous assessments.

Kate Dodsworth, Deputy Chief Executive at RSH, said: “Landlords that achieve a C1 grading show they are putting tenants at the heart of their services, maintaining safe and decent homes, and responding effectively when issues arise.”

Community Gateway Association Limited, based in Preston, Lancashire, was also upgraded from C2 to C1. RSH said it had strengthened its health and safety management since its inspection in July 2025, improved governance and accountability, and was communicating better with tenants.

In other judgements published at the same time, Milton Keynes-based Amplius Living received grades of C2, G1 and V2 following inspection. RSH found weaknesses in its repairs service and challenges in meeting increased legal requirements for tackling damp and mould following the introduction of Awaab’s Law. The regulator said Amplius is addressing the issues but would need to show continued and consistent improvement.

Watford Community Housing Trust, which trades as Chime Housing, received an interim judgement confirming a G1 governance grade and a V2 financial viability grade, following its merger with Thrive Homes. RSH has not yet assessed the merged organisation against the consumer standards.