A new initiative to raise the
standards of council homes across Richmondshire has been
introduced.
All empty council properties must now meet new
‘lettable’ standards before they are allocated to new tenants.
Voluntary tenant inspectors will inspect the
homes before they are released for letting – ensuring that all
repairs are done and the home is up to the required standards.
The ‘Void Lettable Standards’ scheme has been
developed following consultation with new tenants and various
district based tenants groups, including the Tenant
Panel.
“These new standards allow tenants to know
exactly what they can expect from the council when they are
allocated accommodation,” said Councillor Peter Wood, Member for
Housing.
“The voluntary inspectors will be checking
that all new empty properties are in top condition, necessary
repairs are completed and they are up to the required standard for
new tenancy. This scheme raises the bar for council
house standards and makes sure all our homes are in first class
condition when they are let.”
The new scheme also includes a system where
‘local’ offers specific to certain areas and needs can be
made. Set up with the Tenant Panel – and following
consultation with local people undertaken through the resident’s
newsletter ‘Grapevine’ - it aims to deal with issues that make a
difference on a local level.
So far it has seen hardstandings installed in
15 homes to address parking issues; extractor fans fitted in
kitchens and bathrooms; and estate walkabouts introduced. The
walkabouts see council officers, councillors and tenants out and
about on estates to identify and deal with problems – in a bid to
keep them clean, tidy and safe.
July 18, 2011
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