STAIRS: Your Right to Information
Clear information. Greater transparency. Stronger accountability.
From 1 October 2026, new requirements called the Social Tenant Access to Information Requirements (STAIRS) will start to apply to housing associations such as GCHA.
STAIRS is designed to make it easier for residents to understand what information is available, where to find it and how to access it.
At GCHA, we are committed to being open and transparent and making important information about your home and our services clear, accessible and easy to find.
What is STAIRS?
STAIRS stands for Social Tenant Access to Information Requirements.
The new requirements aim to improve transparency and accountability within social housing by giving residents clearer access to information about their landlord, homes and housing services.
STAIRS is being introduced in two stages:
From 1 October 2026
Housing associations will be required to publish certain information about their activities and services.
From 1 April 2027
Eligible residents will be able to request certain information held by their housing association about the management of social housing.
Finding information from GCHA
We already publish a wide range of information to help residents understand our services and how we are performing.
You can find information about:
Our performance
Find out how we are performing and view our latest Tenant Satisfaction Measures.
Complaints and service improvements
See how we handle complaints, what residents have told us and how we’re using feedback to improve our services.
Policies and strategies
Access important GCHA policies and strategies relating to your home and our services.
Resident information and newsletters
Keep up to date with the latest information, advice and news for GCHA residents.
Resident engagement
Find out how you can get involved, share your views and help influence our services.
We will continue to add more information to this page as STAIRS is introduced.
Requesting information from GCHA
From 1 April 2027, eligible residents will be able to request certain information that GCHA holds about the management of its social housing, subject to the requirements and exemptions set out in the legislation.
We will publish further guidance before April 2027 explaining what information you can request and how to make a request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does STAIRS stand for?
STAIRS stands for Social Tenant Access to Information Requirements. It introduces new requirements designed to improve transparency and accountability in social housing.
When does STAIRS start?
STAIRS is being introduced in phases. From 1 October 2026, housing associations must publish certain information about their activities and services. From 1 April 2027, eligible residents will be able to request certain information about the management of their social housing.
Can I ask GCHA for information?
From 1 April 2027, eligible residents may request certain information that GCHA holds about the management of its social housing, subject to the requirements and exemptions set out in the legislation.
What information can I request?
Requests may relate to information that GCHA holds about the management of its social housing and services. We will publish further guidance about making requests before April 2027.
Does STAIRS replace the complaints process?
No. STAIRS is about access to information. If you’re unhappy with a service you’ve received from GCHA, you should continue to use our Comments and Complaints process.
Will there be information that cannot be shared?
Yes. In some circumstances, information may be withheld where disclosure would conflict with legal requirements or where exemptions apply, such as protecting personal information.
How will I access information?
Published information will be available through the GCHA website. We will also provide further guidance about accessing information and, from April 2027, making an information request.
GCHA's Commitment
At GCHA, we believe that informed residents are empowered residents.
We are committed to being open, honest and accountable, and we welcome the introduction of STAIRS as another opportunity to strengthen trust, improve transparency and ensure residents have access to the information they need.
Further information will be added to this website as STAIRS is implemented.
Useful Links
Residents who would like to learn more about STAIRS can visit:
Government – STAIRS Policy Statement
Housing Ombudsman Service – Social Tenant Access to Information Requirements (STAIRS)