Tenancy Audits: Getting to Know Our Tenants Better
Released: 23 January 2007
Wolverhampton Homes is launching a programme of tenancy audits to update the information about the City Council’s tenants which will help us to get to know tenants better and to help plan for the future of the service. The visits will also help to ensure the tenants are receiving the services they need, that they are complying with their tenancy obligations and that they are the legal tenant as described on the tenancy agreement.
When the visits are undertaken Wolverhampton Homes’ staff will ask a number of questions and carry out an inspection of the property and garden. Staff will check to make sure that the legal tenant is still residing at the property and will request proof of identity and residency. Where any illegal occupation is discovered, legal action will be commenced to recover possession of the property. It can then be relet to an applicant in housing need from the Housing Register.
The visit is also an opportunity for tenants to raise any issues. We have regular contact with some tenants but there is a significant number who we do not have contact with, some of whom may need support or help. Staff can identify any vulnerability issues and make appropriate referrals so that support can be provided.
Councillor Pat Byrne, Chair of Wolverhampton Homes welcomes the introduction of tenancy audits and says “This is something that will ensure people living in our homes are bona fide tenants and are maintaining their home in good condition. It will also enable officers to identify people who may need additional support in maintaining their tenancy”.
Anne Guest, Chair of Wolverhampton Federation of Tenants Associations also welcomes the initiative and says “Tenants have been campaigning for tenancy audits for many years and hopes they will lead to more tenants becoming more involved in the management of their homes and estates”.
All staff carrying out tenancy audits will carry Wolverhampton Homes ID cards. Tenants are encouraged to ask to check the ID before letting them into their homes.
Issued by the press office.
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