The social housing group at Birketts LLP is praised for 'the personalised contact with partners and the ability to escalate matters'. Practice heads Jonathan Hulley, who handles contentious matters, and Thaine Wilson split their time between the London and Norwich offices. They oversee a practice with a stellar client base that includes Places for People and Orbit Group. Norwich-based senior associate Sarah Fish is a key adviser to Housing Associations, housebuilders and local authorities on non-contentious matters. Legal director Kevin Edwards in Cambridge handles acquisitions, developments and disposals. Associate Rachael Watts joined from Ellisons Solicitors, adding extensive experience in advising housebuilders.

The team at Howes Percival LLP is 'has an unrivalled depth and breadth of knowledge and experience across the social housing sector'. The practice is led by the 'infinitely knowledgeable, astute' Estelle Corner in Norwich, who handles development and property transactions, and Cambridge-based Simon Murphy, whose prime focus is on housing management matters. Senior associate Jonathan Parker in Norwich 'takes time to carefully understand his clients' objectives and provide creative solutions'. Michaela Henson in Cambridge is a key adviser on commercial property transactions, and Norwich-based associate Katie Reading assists housing authorities, local authorities and private developers with affordable housing matters.