Research by the LGA has found councils in England could face an extra £18 million to deal with new housing standards.
Under the Social Housing (Regulation) Act, the Government is introducing new standards for the professionalisation of the housing sector, which requires senior housing management staff to complete qualifications up to a certain level.
LGA research has revealed the changes are likely to cost councils £17.9 million in the first two years and then £3.7 million a year on an ongoing basis.
It says these additional costs need to be fully funded by government to prevent costs falling on over-stretched housing revenue accounts (HRAs).
The LGA is also calling for the implementation to be properly managed, with council housing management teams already facing significant workforce pressures, and for the Government to work with the LGA and qualification bodies on a comprehensive strategy, delivered to a realistic timetable.
In addition, local areas must be able to make their own assessments of roles in scope based on their individual workforce profile.
Cllr Linda Taylor, LGA Housing Spokesperson, said: “Councils are fully committed to improving the quality of social housing, supporting housing staff and ensuring they receive appropriate training and can gain qualifications to help them in their roles.
“With costs to councils likely to be almost £18 million just for the first two years, it is essential that these new requirements are fully funded.”
