Issue - meetings

To receive a report from the Head of Housing & Health which is being presented in support of an ongoing commitment to provide a quarterly update to members on activity undertaken by Mid Devon Housing (MDH), including some relating to enforcement.

The Group had before it, and NOTED, a report * from the Head of Housing and Health presenting information in support of an ongoing commitment to provide a quarterly update to Members on activity undertaken by Mid Devon Housing (MDH), including some relating to enforcement.

The following summary information was provided:

·       Performance data indicated that all areas were performing well.

·       The one area presenting a challenge was void properties. There was currently a record number of voids this year. The number was on track to be over 200 for the 2025/26 year, a 40% increase on the annual number completed to 2023/24. The reasons for this were varied and complex. It had been a tough autumn with more ‘deceased’ tenants than usual. Also, the Housing Development Programme and the moving of tenants to these newer properties was having an effect on void numbers. Major construction projects at Hinkley and Bridgewater, where higher wages were being paid, was also having an effect in terms of attracting operatives meaning increased vacancies and delivery via contarctors. Added to this, the health and safety of existing tenants requiring repairs on the properties would always take priority over repairing an empty property.

Discussion took place regarding:

·       Why some heating repairs took so long? This was another area presenting a challenge. It was explained that all repairs were triaged. Heating systems were complex and there were many different types depending on the age of each property and what was installed initially. Some systems were at ‘end of life’ and replacement parts were difficult to obtain. In these cases full system replacements may need to be installed. There had also been challenges with the contractor but the contract with them would be ending in March and a new contractor sought.

·       The number of stage one complaints had reduced and there was a very robust ‘lessons learned’ process in place.

Note: * Report previously circulated.