Agenda item

To receive an update from the directorate.

Simon Lewis, Head of Housing along with Ian Candlish, Head of Property presented the directorate report, a summary of the report can be found below:

·       HRA Growth - Classic Builders have commenced construction works on Phase Ci with foundations being poured. The groundworkers will then move to Phase B to start the foundations. Phase Dii (Hereford Drive flats) are being decanted, and a Compulsory Purchase Order is being pursued for the one remaining private flat. End of Defects inspections are being carried out on Phase A properties on a rolling programme as the new homes come to the end of their 12-month defect period. Demolition of the Oxford Inn on Roman Road in Taunton has completed. Work has now started on building the eight new energy efficient homes which we aim to complete by December 2025.

·       Property Team - There is ongoing recruitment for the trades area to ensure we continue to meet target completion dates. We are also now recruiting for a Building Disrepair Surveyor, following a resignation. We continue to undertake void repairs to successfully meet our Lettable Standard. Procurement for external contractor support for void repairs has now been evaluated and is progressing through the governance process.

·       Housing Performance Team - Supporting and enabling the work of the Tenants Strategic Group (TSG) and Tenants’ Action Group (TAG) and the subgroups is a key focus for our team. We have agreed a comprehensive training plan for TSG group members and a new suite of training sessions will become available in 2025.

After receiving the Update, the group raised the following points (summarised):

·       Does Property Compliance Cover Legionella. Ian confirmed that water safety measures include water risk assessments and temperature checks to prevent Legionella, with the frequency of inspections depending on the property type and client vulnerabilities.

·       Concern raised about the kitchen floors being extremely cold due to the material used. New flooring takes the heat out of the room. Ian confirmed that they would look into the issue. 

·       The group queried the duration of stay in temporary housing families face and concerns on the length of time they stay in temporary accommodations, Simon explained that the responsibility for temporary housing falls under the homelessness service, adding the demand for social housing exceeds the supply with the Council using some of its housing stock, leased properties, and B&Bs to provide temporary accommodation for homeless families. 

·       Complaint handling, a Member of the Group made a complaint a while ago, and the Team were amazing.

·       Under shelter and Extra Care will the additional Officer that’s in place until the 31^{st of} January be in place long enough. The position has been extended to the end of March with the possibility it may go beyond that.

·       The group asked if there is a policy and procedure for addressing tenants who do not look after their property. There is no specific policy for addressing tenants who do not look after their property, but the tenancy agreement requires tenants to maintain their property and report repairs.