Issue - meetings

(a)       That the Committee support the introduction of the proposed Compliance Policy and Compliance Certificate; and

(b)       That the Committee support the proposed timescales for introduction of the Compliance Policy and review periods.

The Senior Manager - Council Housing Services presented a report to seek support for the introduction of a proposed Compliance Policy and Certificate.  This was a requirement from WG to verify the Council’s interpretation and achievement of each element of the Welsh Housing Quality Standard (WHQS).  Whilst priority was given to the primary elements of the Standard, the Council had given a commitment to achieve as many secondary ‘desirable’ elements as possible.  The certificates incorporated a range of components in order to meet the WHQS and would be used for new tenants of council homes.  A shared arrangement with Wrexham County Borough Council for the independent verification of submissions would result in cost savings.  The policy was due to be implemented in the first quarter of 2016/17 and would be subject to ongoing review.

As mentioned on previous occasions, Councillor George Hardcastle felt it was important to consider the option of delaying programmed works for tenants with a history of recurring rent arrears, whilst separating genuine cases of hardship.  The Senior Manager said that officers were currently exploring how this could be reviewed on a case by case basis, including consideration of court orders.  Details on this approach would be shared with the Committee at a later date as part of the Rent Arrears Annual Report.

Councillor Paul Cunningham commended the work which had been done and said that Flintshire was leading the way.

Following similar comments from Councillor David Cox, the Senior Manager said that progress had been made in publicising the Council’s work on achieving the WHQS, including discussions with tenant groups.

In response to remarks on the need for the Council to maintain the standards of housing beyond 2020, Councillor Peter Curtis also highlighted the responsibility of tenants in looking after their properties.

Councillor Rosetta Dolphin asked about the arrangements for private rentals and was informed of the requirements of the new WG initiative ‘Rent Smart Wales’ which applied to private landlords.

The Chairman took the opportunity to praise the team for their excellent work.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the Committee support the introduction of the proposed Compliance Policy and Compliance Certificate; and

(b)       That the Committee support the proposed timescales for introduction of the Compliance Policy and review periods.