LiveWest becomes first housing provider to adopt the Shared Ownership Code
LiveWest, part of Bromford Flagship LiveWest, has become the first housing provider to adopt the Shared Ownership Code, operated by the New Homes Quality Board (NHQB), marking a significant milestone in raising standards for shared ownership across England.
The organisation is the largest housing provider in the South-West and owns and manages 5,415 shared ownership homes. It was also one of eight housing providers that piloted the draft Shared Ownership Code ahead of its formal launch in 2025.
Operated by NHQB, the Shared Ownership Code establishes a clear and consistent framework for how shared ownership homes are marketed, sold and managed – from first enquiry through to living in the home and eventual resale.
The Code aims to ensure that customers benefit from a smoother and fairer experience from purchase through to living in their home, with transparent information on costs, responsibilities, and processes so they always know what to expect, and stronger protection and safeguards that go beyond current minimum standards.
Adopting the Code demonstrates LiveWest’s strong sector leadership and a clear commitment to strengthening consumer protection and improving customer outcomes, setting a benchmark for others in the sector to follow.
For housing providers, the Code offers a practical framework to strengthen governance, support consistent delivery across teams, and build trust and credibility with customers, lenders and policymakers.
Emma Toms, Chief Executive of the New Homes Quality Board (NHQB), said:
“As operator of the New Homes Quality Code, we have demonstrated that a robust framework – one with clear expectations around customer service and transparent complaints procedures – meaningfully improves the homebuying experience and drives up standards across the industry.
“We are proud to extend that same rigour to shared ownership, and delighted that LiveWest has become the first housing provider to adopt the Code. We want to see others follow their lead and help embed a higher, consistent standard across the sector.”
Russell Baldwinson, Executive Director of Development and Investment for Bromford Flagship LiveWest, added:
“Becoming the first organisation to become compliant with the Shared Ownership Code reflects our clear commitment to transparency, accountability and high standards for our customers.
“Shared ownership plays an important role in helping people access home ownership, and it is essential that customers have confidence in both the service they receive and the organisations providing it.
“By signing up to the Code at an early stage, we are demonstrating leadership and setting a clear benchmark for customer‑focused practice within the sector.
“We believe this Code will help drive greater consistency and trust across shared ownership, delivering long‑term benefits for customers and the wider housing sector.”
LiveWest has now transitioned from Pending to a Code Adopter on the Code Adopter Directory, and NHQB is encouraging other housing providers to follow LiveWest’s example. Widespread adoption will help build confidence among customers and ensure a higher, more consistent standard of service across the sector.
To apply to become a Code Adopter, please visit: www.sharedownershipcode.org.uk/adopt-the-code/