Housing services consultation procedure

 

This consultation procedure defines the methods and standards of consultation to be adopted by the Housing

Service. Its purpose is to enable and encourage the effective involvement of tenants and leaseholders and it ensures that tenants, leaseholders and their recognised group are made aware of when, why and how they are consulted and the outcome of any consultation.

 

Consultation standard

 

Consultation procedures will vary according to:

  • The subject of the consultation,
    which may for example be an improvement or repair scheme, a regeneration initiative or a strategic issue.
  • The people to be consulted,
    which might be a whole estate or specific individuals.
  • Particular circumstances.
    There might be specific local issues, environmental considerations, related legislation or guidance to take into account.

 

The Council will aim to achieve the following standards where appropriate:

  • Inform affected tenants, leaseholders and their recognised associations of the consultations taking place in their area.
  • Hold public meetings to discuss how the issue will be progressed.
  • Set up a steering group, which involves tenants, leaseholders and residents affected.
  • Provide information to all affected regarding who to contact and how to complain during the process and any planned timetable.
  • Give regular and timely updates and advice to everyone affected and involved on lengthy projects.
  • Provide opportunities for those affected to have their say on decisions, where appropriate.
  • Those involved will then be asked to evaluate the consultation at the end of the process.
  • All of those consulted will be informed of the outcome of any consultation.
  • A variety of methods will be used to reach as many people as possible.

 

Consultation summary chart

 

This section shows at a glance the circumstances in which tenants, leaseholders and their groups should be consulted or informed. Please note it is not an exhaustive list.

 

Issues

Every Thanet District Council tenant

Every Thanet District Council leaseholder

Individual affected tenants and leaseholders

Residents Association

Tenants and Leaseholders Consultation Forum

           

Changes to tenancy conditions

Y       Y

Changes to the provision of the Housing Management service

Y Y   Y Y

Changes to general repairs procedures

Y     Y Y

Changes to rent collection

X     Y Y

Changes to Letting Policy

X     Y Y

Programmed maintenance works;

■ Demolitions

■ Modernisation

■ Refurbishment

■ Environmental works

    Y Y Y

Design modifications to individual properties or blocks

    Y  Y  

Annual Service Plan

        Y

Changes to lease conditions

  Y     Y

Changes to leasehold Management Strategy

  Y     Y

Changes to Leasehold Management Handbook

  Y     Y

Changes to service charges

  Y Y   Y

 

 

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