Issue - meetings

To consider approving the Policy.

Purpose of report

To consider approving the new Voids Policy.

Decision

That Cabinet:

1.    Approve and adopt the new Voids Policy.

2.    Agree that any future minor amendments (i.e. changes to wording to reflect changes in process) required through the life of the policy are delegated to the Head of Service – Technical Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing.

Other options considered

Retaining the existing policy was ruled out as it was considered out of date and no longer fit for purpose.

Reasons for the decision

The Council was required to have strict void policies in place to ensure the safety of properties being let, whilst adhering to regulatory compliance and safety standards.

The Void Policy was required to minimise rent loss and it set out the Council’s lettable standard to residents.

The following groups were consulted on the new Void Policy:

·       Housing OSC

·       Housing Department Management team

·       Voids team

·       Resident workshop and online consultation.