Our story
We are Chime Housing, a Community Gateway housing association with over 13,500 homes across Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas.
Our core focus is on providing good-quality places to live for lower-income households, and most of our homes are for social and affordable rent.
We were formed in June 2026 through the merger of Thrive Homes and Watford Community Housing, two well-respected housing associations with shared values, ideas and geography.
What can residents expect from us?
We’re taking the best of both our organisations and optimising how we do things.
To do this, we will make sure we get the fundamentals right and ensure that being a Community Gateway housing association is embedded into our culture. By listening and learning from our residents, we are driven by what matters most, making improvements that truly make a difference to people’s lives.
In our first 18 months, we will focus on strengthening our repairs and maintenance service as well as improving how we tailor communications to suit what you prefer.
Longer-term, we aim to be recognised for strong regeneration of existing homes and communities – creating high‑quality homes for rent and shared ownership.
Why are we called Chime Housing?
Our name was chosen following detailed research and analysis, taking into account the views of residents, employees and other stakeholders. This included the feedback we received through our ten-week customer consultation and a dedicated resident workshop.
One of the key themes that consistently came up during the research was the importance of community and togetherness, which underpins the Community Gateway ethos – and our new name reflects this.
It captures the shared values and ambitions of the two housing associations who have come together to form Chime Housing. We’re also committed to being fully aligned with our residents, remaining in chime with their needs and expectations, through close engagement and collaborative decision-making.
The name is supported by a brand identity marque in the form of a wren, which symbolises togetherness.
Wrens are frequently found in Hertfordshire gardens, woodlands and urban areas, with a group of wrens being known as a ‘chime’.
Our Executive Team
Our Group Board and Committees
Our Performance
