BY CAT CALDER, AFF HOUSING SPECIALIST
Habitual underinvestment, slow repairs and a lack of accountability have made military housing a longstanding source of frustration for many soldiers and Army families. There is, however, a growing body of evidence to suggest that the days of accommodation angst are set to ease.
Indeed, since the beginning of 2025 there has been a seismic shift in the Service Family Accommodation (SFA) landscape – one that offers hope for lasting improvement.
Homes buy-back
The turning point came when the Ministry of Defence (MOD) bought back all SFA properties previously owned by Annington Homes. This move ended a decades-long leaseback arrangement that had cost the public purse more than £230 million annually and left families living in houses that were often below acceptable standards.
With ownership returned to the MOD, the UK Government now has full control over the estate, removing the constraints of private ownership and enabling direct investment in repairs, upgrades and new developments.
Housing review
The Secretary of State also launched the Defence Housing Strategy Review, a comprehensive evaluation of the entire SFA system, that informed the new Defence Housing Strategy announced in November. The aim was clear: to ensure that the opportunity for transformation would not be wasted.
Crucially, the review was led by independent housing experts. I was included in this as a representative of the three families federations, a measure that ensured the voices of service families were not only heard but embedded in the resulting strategy.
Unlike previous initiatives, the current plan is backed by substantial funding – with the Government pledging to invest £9 billion over 10 years. Some of this money is already being used to refurbish the homes in the worst condition, tackle persistent issues such as damp and mould, and accelerate new housing developments at key sites including RAF Brize Norton and Catterick Garrison.
Consumer Charter
Alongside physical improvements, the MOD has introduced the SFA Consumer Charter, with seven commitments designed to improve your day-to-day experience of living in SFA.
You will now have a named housing officer, faster repairs aligned with Awaab’s Law, higher move-in standards, a streamlined complaints process, and greater freedoms to personalise your homes. These changes are not just promises; they are commitments backed by policy and funding.
Early signs of progress are already visible with improvements to 1,000 homes most in need of refurbishment across the UK now complete.
Similarly, AFF is beginning to hear from families that improvements in responsiveness, quality and communication are being felt – clear indicators that change is not just possible but underway.
Change takes time
There is a caveat. There is no magic wand to wave that will resolve everything overnight. Change will take time, especially when it includes major refurbishments or new-build projects. However, under the new Defence Housing Strategy, I am hopeful you and your families will see a demonstrable change for the better soon. And rest assured that AFF will continue to engage with the new governance, policies and improvements to ensure your views are given the highest priority in all decisions.