Agenda item

To present the findings from the HRA stock condition surveys (report of the Assistant Director – Housing enclosed).

Consideration was given to the report of the Service Director – Housing which presented findings from the HRA stock condition surveys.

The Portfolio Holder for Strategic and Operational Housing presented the report which provided an update on the stock condition surveys undertaken across the HRA housing stock.

At the time the report was prepared, 92.8% of homes had been surveyed, providing a robust and detailed understanding of the overall condition of the stock.

The surveys assessed property condition, compliance with the Decent Homes Standard, Housing Health and Safety Rating System hazards and, where applicable, energy performance. The findings indicated that the majority of building components were performing as expected, or better than expected. A small number of Category One hazards identified through the surveys had been fully remedied.

The data gathered had directly informed the recently approved HRA Business Plan and Asset Management Strategy, ensuring that investment decisions were evidence?based, financially sustainable and aligned with national requirements. Work was continuing to access the remaining properties, with the objective of completing surveys across 100% of the housing stock.

The report noted that the contract with the current survey provider was due to conclude in the coming months, and that preparations were underway to procure a new supplier. This would ensure the continuation of a rolling programme of stock condition surveys, maintaining accurate and up?to?date data. This approach would support the provision of safe, well?maintained and energy?efficient homes, ensure ongoing compliance with the Regulator of Social Housing, and contribute to the Council’s ambition to achieve a C1 grading.

Members noted the increase in survey completion from 90% to 92.8% and sought assurance that access would be achieved to 100% of HRA properties.

Officers confirmed that all reasonable steps were being taken to secure access, including extended appointments with the current provider, increased officer involvement, and the use of a no?access group to address difficult cases. It was reported that progress continued to improve and that the survey completion rate was expected to increase beyond 92.8%.

Members were assured that the Council remained committed to achieving 100% access and that a firmer approach had been adopted where necessary, while seeking to avoid enforcement action wherever possible. It was noted that legal routes, such as injunctions, were available if required, though engagement was the preferred approach.

Officers highlighted that access had already been achieved in 100% of cases for gas and electrical safety checks.

Members queried patterns in no?access properties, including a higher proportion of larger homes, and were advised that this was being monitored.

Officers confirmed that the survey results had aligned with existing data expectations and that no significant unexpected issues had arisen.

DECISION:

To note the findings from the stock condition surveys and the strategy for using and maintaining data.

(Other options considered:

·         Do nothing. In this event, PMP and Cabinet would not consider information regarding stock condition. This option is not preferred because the safety and quality standard set by the Regulator of Social Housing requires landlords to have an accurate, up to date and evidenced understanding of the condition of their homes.

Reasons for decision:

·         To ensure the Council is informed about the condition of its housing stock; the data is used to inform investment strategies; and there is a plan in place for ensuring robust up to date data is maintained.)