Sustainability will continue to be a driving force in the social housing sector as new trends emerge that will shape how housing is built, maintained, and operated.

One of the key future trends is the push towards net-zero homes. As the UK government’s Climate Change Act aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, social housing providers will need to significantly reduce the carbon emissions of their properties(1).

For many, this means moving towards zero-carbon designs, which may include the integration of renewable energy sources like solar panels and the use of air-source heat pumps and electric heating systems(2).

There is also growing interest in smart homes. The integration of smart technologies in social housing could help improve energy efficiency and resident comfort(3). For example, smart thermostats, energy-efficient appliances, and automated lighting systems can significantly reduce energy consumption and give tenants more control over their living environment.

These technologies also align with the government’s objectives for improving energy efficiency across housing stock(4).

Another trend is the use of sustainable construction materials. As demand for eco-friendly housing rises, social housing developers are increasingly turning to materials such as sustainable timber, recycled steel, and low-carbon concrete. These materials not only reduce the environmental footprint of new developments but also contribute to long-term energy savings by improving insulation and overall energy performance(5).

The UK government is also expected to continue offering support through funding and grants for retrofit programmes. With the introduction of more stringent energy efficiency standards, social housing providers can expect to see greater financial incentives for retrofitting existing properties to meet higher EPC ratings.

These measures will help ensure that housing stock remains viable and energy-efficient for decades to come. As these trends gain momentum, social housing providers who prioritise sustainability will not only meet regulatory requirements but will also provide tenants with healthier, more energy-efficient homes that are built to last.

Bibliography

1 Defining net zero for social housing (Accessed May 2025) https://www.housing.org.uk/globalassets/files/climate-and-sustainability--energy-crisis/defining-net-zero-discussion-paper-2021.pdf

2 Social housing decarbonisation case studies (Accessed May 2025) https://www.climatexchange.org.uk/publications/social-housing-decarbonisation-case-studies-summary-report

3 The human value of technology in social housing (Accessed May 2025) https://www.housing-technology.com/the-human-value-of-technology-in-social-housing

4 Energy efficiency of UK homes (Accessed May 2025) https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-9889

5 Is sustainable and affordable housing a realistic possibility? (Accessed May 2025) https://www.rics.org/news-insights/wbef/is-sustainable-and-affordable-housing-a-realistic-possibility