Issue - items at meetings - Housing Committee Workplan Progress Update and Housing Performance Report Quarter 1 2021/22

Resolved:

2.1       That Housing Committee notes the report.

28.1    The Head of Income Involvement & Improvement introduced the report to the committee.

          Questions

28.2    Councillor Meadows was informed that the total number of complaints was 83, 81% had been responded to within 10 days and the re-let timescales are being improved.

28.3    Councillor Mears was informed that the apprenticeship scheme had been delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic and new scheme would start soon. Residents with rent arrears are given support, but not a lax approach. When needed the council will go to the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) for full payments.

28.4    Councillor Gibson was informed that the air and ground source heat pumps are being installed, as well as solar panels, retrospectively.

28.5    Councillor Williams was informed that tenants in arrears are helped with discretionary house payments and given support by other council directorates, and back dated benefits can help. The council look at the whole picture, in the round and help residents to consolidate debts. The ability to move-on when in arrears depends on the situation, there is no general way forward to assist tenants move-on.

28.6    Councillor Osborne was informed that the number of days to resolve cases was to be improved, however it was noted that gathering evidence takes time.

28.7    Councillor Meadows was informed that the electric certificates were not needed legally for council stock, however, it is good practice.

          Vote

28.8    A vote was taken, and the committee agreed unanimously to accept the recommendation.

RESOLVED:

2.1       That Housing Committee notes the report.