Housemark’s latest Monthly Pulse, based on performance data from 161 social landlords across the UK, shows a median current tenant arrears rate of 2.47% at year-end 2025/26, the lowest since Pulse began. This represents a fall from 2.81% in March 2022, equating to a reduction of more than £80m across the sector over four years. Performance gains have been widespread, with 57% of landlords reducing arrears over the past year.

However, the data also shows growing pressure elsewhere in the system, particularly in lettings. Vacancy levels have increased and now sit in line with post-pandemic levels seen in 2022, while the median re-let time for March 2026 reached 51 days, higher than the same point last year. 

Housemark says this reflects ongoing system pressure, with the cumulative impact affecting income performance, stock availability and customer experience.

The report also highlights a sharp increase in reported emergency hazards under Awaab’s Law, following the end of an initial grace period on data validation and the tightening of reporting requirements.

As a result, landlords recorded a median of 74.2 emergency hazards per 1,000 homes in March, with a mean average of 83. Housemark’s analysis shows this increase reflects improved data quality and stronger alignment with statutory definitions, rather than a deterioration in housing conditions.

Jonathan Cox, chief data officer at Housemark, said: “This month’s Pulse shows the sector delivering its strongest arrears position to date, despite ongoing financial pressure on residents. That reflects sustained effort and focus over several years.

“At the same time, pressures have not disappeared. Challenges in lettings are becoming more visible, with rising vacancy levels and longer re-let times pointing to ongoing strain across the system.

“We are also seeing a more consistent approach to Awaab’s Law reporting, where higher hazard volumes reflect better identification and more robust data rather than worsening conditions.”

Other findings from Housemark’s March 2026 Monthly Pulse include: 

• Responsive repairs volumes at a median of 320.3 per 1,000 homes
• Repairs completed within target at 86.9%
• Transactional repairs satisfaction at 89.1%
• New ASB cases at a median of 3.6 per 1,000 homes
• Complaints at a median of 6.37 per 1,000 homes
• Median customer satisfaction at 77%

The data highlights a sector continuing to strengthen core performance areas such as arrears, while facing sustained operational pressure in lettings and service delivery.