Decent Home

The government has established a new standard for all social housing throughout the UK. By 2010 all social housing must meet these standards.

Many council houses are in need of renovations and improvements and the government has set the Decent Homes standard to enforce long awaited upgrades. The fundamental aim of the strategy is to ensure that all social housing is warm, weatherproof and have adequate modern facilities.

The UK statistics indicate that in 1997 there were over 2.1 million homes which did not meet the Decent Homes criteria and so there is much for local councils to achieve by 2010. Finance is always an issue but the government has set up three three schemes which are designed to help local councils achieve the target:

• Transfer houses to a non-profit housing association
• Establish a Management Organisation
• Agree a Private Finance Initiative

As someone living in social housing, you have the right to a Decent Home and a good standard of living. Councils are duty bound to improve housing over the next two years so if you think your home requires modernisation and upgrading follow the steps below:

One: Contact your local council
Call or write to your local council explaining that you believe your home does not meet the requirement of the Decent Homes standard.

Two: Arrange for a survey
In order to determine exactly what work might need to be done, your council should arrange a survey of your property.

Three: Make a list
Each council will have a process for determining what changes can be made under the Decent Homes standard so ensure you make a lits of items you think may need upgrading.

Four: Timescales
Every council should arrange dates and completion times with you. If your repairs are major works you may have to live elsewhere for a short period of time. Your council should make you fully aware of exactly what work is to be done and when.

It is important to remember that there are also other schemes which you may be eligable for if your repairs do not fall within the Decent Homes standards, so make sure you ask your council for details of these.

When you are compiling your list of repairs or alterations keep in mind the three main aims of the strategy that homes should be warm, weatherproof and adequately modernised.

If you have any further questions on the Decent Homes standard please call us on 01789 842898
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