Tell us why – and let us help
A vital part of the Council’s role as your landlord is to carry out regular gas and electrical safety checks, and to undertake Home Condition Surveys to make sure your home is in a good state of repair. However, some tenants don’t let us do these – and we want to understand why, so we can help.
We know there can be many reasons for not letting either us or our contractors in. These can include:
- Worries about hoarding, clutter, or unauthorised alterations
- Fear or anxiety about officials or strangers entering their home
- Difficulty taking time off work or caring duties
- Mental or physical health issues
- Language or communication barriers
- Domestic abuse or safeguarding issues
- Drug abuse issues or chaotic lifestyles
Sometimes people worry that they’ll get into trouble for breaching their tenancy conditions.
As a housing service, we are here to help. If you are unable or unwilling to let us or our contractors into your home, please contact us so we can discuss. We will work with you to understand any concerns or issues and find a solution that meets your needs.
What if we still can’t access your home?
If we still can’t come to an agreement to access your home, we may apply for a warrant through the court to make sure a Council officer or contractor can access your home.
An application for a warrant can be triggered by repeated failed appointments or refusal to let us in; no response to letters, notices, phone calls, emails, texts or home visits; or failure to comply with a legal notice. We could also apply for a warrant if there are concerns about a health and safety risk, or if legally required safety checks, such as gas, electrical, or fire, are overdue.
Help us to help you
Please don’t ignore appointment letters. If you are not going to be available for the stated appointment, please contact us so we can agree an alternative date.
Remember – carrying out safety checks and surveys means that we can keep your home safe, well maintained and in good condition for you and your family.