Housing repairs policy

Cyclical Maintenance is defined as work which is undertaken on an arranged cycle to help maintain the property in good order. In addition, the Council undertakes annual gas boiler servicing as well as regular electrical testing, asbestos and water hygiene checks and lift servicing (compliance checks).

We will undertake the cyclical maintenance of components, servicing and compliance checks in accordance with current legislation, Health & Safety guidelines and other appropriate industry legislative standards.

We will service all gas appliances for which we are responsible within statutory regulations and requirements. The service will include safety checks and will be in accordance with all current gas regulations. We will, if necessary, take appropriate enforcement action against tenants who do not co-operate in providing access for compliance checks to be undertaken. Enforcement action to gain access to a home will only be used as a last resort and we will work with tenants to arrange suitable access to their home for such checks.  Compliance checks support the safety of the tenant, their household and neighbours.

We will also maintain and service specialist installations such as lifts, fire alarm systems, council provided smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, warden call systems, door entry systems or any other items considered necessary, on a regular basis as demanded by statutory responsibility or manufacturer's recommendations. All services will include health and safety checks.  Where possible we will try to coordinate our activities to minimise inconvenience to tenants, such as carrying out boiler, smoke alarm and CO detector planned maintenance in one visit.  

Cyclical maintenance works includes works like external painting and cleaning guttering.  We will redecorate our properties externally on a regular basis. Prior to redecoration, all previously painted components will be surveyed, and any found to be defective will be repaired or renewed. We will also decorate the communal areas on a regular basis. Where tenants wish to decorate parts, or the whole of their home externally, permission must be sought in advance. Where possible we will also incorporate improvements identified by tenants and leaseholders.