Welcome to HIAF
The HIAF was established in 1990 as a discussion group for those responsible for internal audit in the sector in response to a need to consult on best practice.
Since then there have been many changes. The sector itself has expanded and The Tenant Services Authority now regulates all Registered Providers of Social Housing, which includes housing providers other than housing associations.
The Tenant Services Authority’s Regulatory Code, which came into force in April 2002, emphasises the need for associations to ensure that viable organisations are properly governed and well managed. Its regulatory approach focuses on outcomes rather than processes and internal audit has a key role to play in providing assurance that key systems deliver the required outcomes and manage significant risks.
The Tenant Services Authority does not require associations to have an internal audit function, but its circular R2-25/01 “Internal Controls Assurance”, states that “many Associations will find if very difficult, if not impossible to meet our requirements unless they have both an internal audit service and an audit committee (or its equivalent) in place.”
More and more housing associations are employing internal auditors. There has been a preponderance of sole internal auditors, but many HAs now have additional staff and other arrangements, such as contracting out the function to a third party or using a consortium arrangement.
The HIAF constantly strives to be responsive to the changing needs of housing association internal auditors in the services and publications it offers its members.
For further, more detailed information about the HIAF, download a copy of our Constitution now .