UK Social Landlords Hit by Record £5.5 billion Repair Bill in 2024. Projections indicate this could rise to £10 billion annually over the next five years

Harnessing Data to Overcome Repairs and Maintenance Challenges in Scottish Social Housing

The financial strain on social landlords has intensified, with British housing associations spending a record £5.5 billion on repairs and maintenance in 2024—a 13% increase from the previous year and 55% above pre-pandemic levels. Projections indicate this could rise to £10 billion annually over the next five years, while surpluses continue to shrink. In Scotland, housing providers face similar pressures, compounded by evolving regulations and the imminent rollout of Awaab’s Law, which bring renewed scrutiny to repairs and maintenance performance.

To navigate these challenges, data-driven strategies are essential. Here are five key approaches to enhance repairs and maintenance services:

1. Identify Repeat Repairs Through Pattern Analysis

Recurring issues, such as persistent boiler faults or damp and mould complaints, can drain resources. By analysing repairs data, providers can detect patterns at the property, component, or contractor level. Tools like Mobysoft’s RepairSense utilize machine learning to surface insights from historical repairs records, enabling proactive interventions before minor issues escalate.

2. Monitor Contractor Performance with Real-Time Data

Effective contractor oversight is crucial. Utilising repairs data allows tracking of job quality, completion rates, and tenant satisfaction in real time. This evidence-based approach ensures accountability, informs contract negotiations, and helps allocate work based on actual performance, reducing unnecessary costs.

3. Prioritise Repairs Based on Risk Assessment

Not all repairs carry the same urgency. By assessing factors like repair type, location, and historical data, providers can prioritize interventions that pose the highest risk to tenant safety or satisfaction. This targeted approach ensures resources are allocated effectively, addressing critical issues promptly.

4. Enhance Communication with Tenants

Transparent communication is key to tenant satisfaction. Keeping tenants informed about repair timelines and processes builds trust and reduces complaints. Implementing systems that provide real-time updates can improve the tenant experience and meet the expectations set by TSMs.

5. Utilize Predictive Analytics for Proactive Maintenance

Moving from reactive to proactive maintenance reduces long-term costs and improves service quality. Predictive analytics can forecast potential failures, allowing for timely interventions. This approach not only extends the lifespan of assets but also aligns with compliance requirements and enhances tenant satisfaction.

By embracing these data-driven strategies, Scottish housing providers can improve operational efficiency, ensure compliance, and deliver better outcomes for tenants. Investing in technology and analytics is no longer optional—it's a necessity for sustainable and effective housing management.