Issue - items at meetings - Housing Committee Workplan Progress Update and Housing Performance Report - Quarter 3, 2020/21

RESOLVED: That Housing Committee notes the report.

148.1  The Head of Income Involvement & Improvement introduced the report.

148.2  Councillor Hugh-Jones was informed that the private rented sector numbers were down due to COVID-19 and a time lag for information coming forward. Residents are being contacted by phone during lockdown, however it is noted that face-to-face is preferable.

148.3  Councillor Mears considered that out of the 305 empty properties, some could be accessed during lockdown and made ready for use, with small improvements left till later. The councillor was informed that the council were trying as hard as possible to get empty properties back into use and the properties were being let as soon as they could be. The councillor noted that the Conservative group leader was not aware that the dispute with the GMB union regarding repairs had been resolved. The councillor was informed by the Chair that there was a statement on the council website and the Policy and Resources committee had agreed terms last week. It was noted that the matter would be confirmed in writing.

148.4  Councillor Williams was informed that the main support for tenants related to benefits and income issues. Other organisations, such as Money Advice Plus also supported tenant with specialist’s advice. Online support has been given during lockdown on budgeting finances, learning and volunteering to improve wellbeing. Support is given to all, not just tenants, and all aspects of support.

148.5 Councillor Appich was informed that the government had not mentioned writing off rent arrears after lockdown. Those receiving Universal credit were being contacted regarding debt and advice was being given about stabilising debt, if not able pay off debts. It was noted that if residents are vulnerable the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) would make payments direct to the council. In extreme situations the council could write off debts. The turn around of void properties has slowed as a result of the pandemic, however, this will be addressed as soon as possible to return to the previous turn around times.  

148.6  Councillor Gibson noted that 52 homes have been lost, however 200 more were being constructed and this increase in supply was a positive. Reducing the number of void properties should be a priority and considered a flexible approach to standards should be employed. The councillor was informed that number of void properties has not changed since the quarter three report has been issued. It was noted that contractors were working at capacity with the properties with little to do being authorised first. The council are aware of the condition of all void properties as they are being monitored. It was also not that staffing levels were sufficient at the moment.

148.7 The Assistant Director of Housing informed the committee that the council were looking at expanding the number of contractors and were using direct labour to turn around void properties.

148.8 The Head of Housing Repairs & Improvement informed the committee that there was a significant backlog at the moment due to the lockdown and to assist, the General Manager of Property Services will be looking at bringing in additional staff.

148.9 The Chair put the recommendations to a vote, and they were agreed unanimously.

148.10

RESOLVED: That Housing Committee notes the report.