Moat welcomes Government’s announcement on DIY repairs

Published by DeanW for Moat Homes Ltd in Housing and also in Central Government, Communities, Local Government

In responding to the announcement from Housing Minister Grant Shapps this morning, South East based housing association, Moat, welcomed the Government’s plan to give social housing residents money to maintain their own homes. Referring to ‘routine’ repairs, including changing fuses, washers and lightbulbs, the Minister said that the bigger more comprehensive items would continue to be handled by the landlord.

Moat is delighted with the plan and looks forward to the results of pilot schemes currently being undertaken by Home Group and Hastoe Housing Association.

Moat recently launched their ‘Resident Independence Model’ with key partners, which focuses on a covenant between resident and landlord to improve efficiency of services and encourage ownership and pride in Moat communities. The Model recognises that financial investment is important but equally that improving resident skills; in this case, household DIY skills like changing a fuse or repairing a faulty tap, can make just as big an impact on a community, long term.

Moat’s Chief Executive, Brian Johnson, says; “ This announcement comes as we too are moving forward with a new conversation with all of our residents – social tenants, shared owners and homeowners. We believe that the most successful relationship with residents is one with reduced bureaucratic control and increased empowerment. The Government’s latest announcement fits perfectly with this belief, offering social housing tenants responsibility for their repairs budget and more power over the services that  we deliver in their areas. In order to continue and be taken up more widely, it will require excellent communication and partnership working between local authorities, landlords and residents to ensure long-term upkeep of housing stock.”