It’s probably fair to say that housing associations are a little under the cosh at the moment. With the Housing Ombudsman’s wave of maladministration judgements showing no sign of abating, damp and mould featuring all too regularly in the media and the secretary of state publicly admonishing failing providers, the reputation of the entire sector has been tarnished over recent times.

Normally under these circumstances, the launch of a new government inquiry would be a cause for further trepidation. But the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee’s latest inquiry is actually very welcome news.

Centred on the finances and sustainability of the social housing sector, it promises to shed some light on the acute financial challenges facing housing associations. And encourage a much-needed discussion about how we can better meet the dual aims of investing in existing homes and contributing towards new housing supply.