Audit Commission to change inspection regime

The commission, which became the single inspectorate for housing on Tuesday, plans to inspect 87 associations in the next 12 months. The first results of these inspections will be published in early May.

Roy Irwin, chief inspector of housing, said: "First we need to look, listen and learn, then make any specific changes in the next few months. We will look at every aspect of the inspection regime and make changes as appropriate – not a revolution, but an improving inspection programme.

Irwin also called for the sector to "make its views known" on how the present regime could be improved. The Audit Commission and Housing Corporation have organised four regional events in the near future as an opportunity for feedback.

This week, 38 Housing Corporation inspection staff began their inductions at the commission's headquarters in central London.