Issue - meetings

To ask Cabinet to approve the new Total Housing Compliance Policy which sets a framework for the monitoring of key consumer standards.

Purpose of report

To inform the Cabinet of the new Total Housing Compliance Policy which set a framework for the monitoring of key consumer standards. In addition, it set out to advise Cabinet members on key responsibilities and the process of achieving compliance with the standards and regulations.

Decision

That Cabinet approves the adoption of the Policy as recommended by the Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting of 22 January 2024.

Alternative options considered and rejected

To do nothing – this was discounted.

Reasons for decision

The clarity provided by The Housing Repairs and Maintenance Policy enabled staff working in the service to make operational decisions efficiently and consistently. This in turn provided greater transparency and understanding for tenants of the standards and activities the repairs and maintenance service would deliver.

The Council was released from national special measures for Housing in Autumn 2023, and the Total Housing Compliance Policy was a vital tool for setting out the way in which the Council would remain legally compliant.

An audit made recommendations in relation to the implementation of key policies regarding compliance activity. This Policy incorporated previous guidelines and management protocols into one document managed by best practice and current legislation. Risks such as asbestos, fire, water hygiene and radon were touched on by this Policy.