Stoke-on-Trent City Council's housing service has been rated C2 by the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) following an inspection earlier this year. The grading means the council is delivering the outcomes of national consumer standards overall, but that some areas need further improvement.

The RSH regulates social landlords in England and issues consumer gradings ranging from C1 (compliant) to C4 (very serious failings). A C2 grading sits in the middle of this scale.

What the inspection covered

The inspection took place in Spring 2026 and involved a review of key documents, assessment of information available online, and on-site meetings with senior management, involved tenants, the council leader and the councillor responsible for housing.

What the regulator found

The RSH recognised a number of strengths within the housing service, though the council's announcement does not list them specifically.

The inspection also identified areas where further improvement is required, though these are not detailed in the council's statement.

The RSH was positive about the council's engagement, welcoming the proactive and transparent approach. Inspectors noted that staff spoke respectfully about tenants during their engagement, and that involved tenants felt listened to and valued.

Council's response

Councillor Duncan Walker, cabinet member for Safe and Resilient Communities and Housing, said the council welcomes the regulator's judgement. "The inspection provided a valuable opportunity for us to demonstrate the work taking place across our housing service and to receive independent feedback on where we can improve further," he said.

Walker added that the council acknowledges areas identified for improvement and is already taking action to address them. He stated the council's focus remains on providing excellent services, listening to tenant feedback and ensuring that every tenant lives in a safe, well-maintained home.

The council has described the service as being on an improvement journey, with the inspection occurring midway through that process.