Leicester City Council carries out regular improvement, modernisation and repair programmes to maintain and improve the quality of properties available to tenants.
One of our key objectives is to ensure that all our properties continue to meet the Government’s Decent Homes Standard. However, subject to funding, we will also be pushing ahead with improvement programmes that go beyond this minimum standard, for example the Lifetime Bathrooms Programme. This is especially the case where tenants have highlighted a particular priority they would like to be met.
The money we put into modernisations and improvements will also make homes more energy efficient, which will help to reduce waste and pollution as well as cutting fuel bills. We also aim to tackle major concerns such as crime and disorder and the lack of facilities for disabled people. It's a balanced programme, looking at the needs of all of our community - young and old, disabled and able-bodied.
Typically, our capital programmes include:
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Capital Programme Policy
Worst First
In deciding how the capital allocation is spent, the overriding principle has always been to tackle the ‘worst’ first and to ensure all of our properties continue to meet the Government’s Decent Homes Standard.
Decisions about when a property is refurbished are dependant on the amount of funding available every year and an assessment of the following criteria:
Windows – based on a condition survey
Boiler replacements - Gas servicing inspection
Central heating - On demand for those that do not yet have it
Chimney replacements - based on a condition survey
Rewiring / electrical testing - Age of the installation
Kitchen and bathroom - age of the property and previous improvements
Re-roofing – based on a condition survey
Structural works – based on a condition survey
A condition survey of all of our housing stock takes place every 4-5 years, with supplementary sample surveys carried out each year to check on rates of deterioration. The purpose of this survey is to establish the condition of certain elements of a property, e.g. roofs, gutters, walls, windows and doors. The information gathered from this survey is used by the Council to help make decisions about the amount and type of capital improvements required to our properties over the coming years.
The condition survey was previously confined to external components of a property, such as roofs, windows/doors, outer walls. However in recent years we have also carried out internal surveys to our properties.
Consultation
We will continue to assess and review our Capital Programme Policy. We will consult with the tenant representatives and elected members to ensure our Capital Programmes meet our overall objectives and the needs and aspirations of our tenants.
Housing Stock Retention
Whilst the City Council will always carefully consider the strategic options for the management and maintenance of its stock, the current position means that the Council will continue to own the Council stock. Capital maintenance and improvement programmes will therefore continue in line with current plans as long as the funding continues to be available.
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