Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director of Community and Children’s Services.

The Sub Committee received a report of the Executive Director of Community and Children’s Services updating Members of key issues being dealt with by the Housing Team.  

Decent Homes – Current Status and Future Changes 

Officers advised Members the revised standards are forecast to come into action between 2035 to 2037, so the Corporation has time to prepare. Officers have used data from the last stock condition survey in 2018, which found 80% of homes were up to standard, responsive repairs data and planned works data is being used to estimate how many homes meet the standard. 

Members highlighted the importance of identifying the capital investment and work required to meet the decent homes standard and address the lack of repairs and maintenance to date, particularly in relation to damp and mould. Officers responded there is work being done to estimate the financial impact of repairs and secure funding through the Major Works Programme and the Climate Action Strategy. They are also identifying less funding-intensive work specified by the revised standard. Major Works Programme funding will be considered at the next Court of Common Council meeting.

Tenant Handbook Update 

A Member asked if the handbook would include information about fire safety. Officers responded that it would cover health and safety, which includes information about flammable obstructions, and would refer to the stay put policy. However, there will be separate fire strategies for high-risk buildings, sheltered homes and almshouses, which the handbook will refer to. 

Regulator of Social Housing Inspection Update  

Officers advised Members that the Regulator of Social Housing would observe the next Resident Voice Group meeting.   

Performance Dashboard – April – September 2025 

Officers advised Members the most recent Electrical Safety testing update in November 2025 showed completion rates were up to 86% against the target of 100%.  

Housing Key Risk Matrix – October 2025 

Officers noted the Major Works programme is the highest risk. Members requested a report be brought to the next meeting detailing what work was being done to build up the programme. The programme would be considered by the Court of Common Council, and members noted the importance of commencing resident involvement and consultation as soon as funding is secured.  

RESOLVED – That, the report be noted.