8.6.6  Voids and Lettings

The Contractor is required to work in accordance with the [Authority Lettings Policy].

a)  In particular, the Contractor is required to develop a lettings procedure that ensures all Dwellings are available and ready to be re-let in a period of not more than 28 days from the cessation of the previous tenancy.  This service is deemed to include any void reservicing works to comply with the Void Reletting Standard in Annex IV prior to the occupation by new tenants, viewings and the completion of tenancy documentation (providing assistance where such is required);

b)  Manage Voids in such manner as to minimise the number of Voids, the time such properties stand empty, and the resulting rent loss. As a minimum, this is expected to include:

i.  Carrying out the registration of applications or amend applications to the Housing List in an effective manner;

ii.  Making offers to potential tenants [in accordance with the Councils Lettings Policy]58 ;

iii.  handle the former Tenant's notice;

iv.  make voids available for re-letting, carrying out any capital works, repairs and maintenance so as to minimise disruption for incoming tenants;

v.  complying with the Void Reletting Standard in Annex IV prior to the occupation by new tenants;

vi.  dealing with vandalism, squatting and unlawful occupation; and

vii.  Securing void dwellings as appropriate.

c)  In respect of Demised Dwellings59, the Contractor must maintain and manage the Voids scheduled for demolition in such a manner as to:

i.  minimise disruption to Tenants and others living in the vicinity;

ii.  ensure service connections are made safe in preparation for demolition, including safe removal of gas meters, etc;

iii.  keep the Voids safe and secure and in such a manner as to avoid the accumulation of waste, discourage theft/vandalism/unauthorised occupation;

iv.  ensure that nothing of value is left in the Void;

v.  ensure that any open space created following demolition and pending redevelopment is either landscaped or fully secured to prevent trespass and anti-social behaviour; and

vi.  deal with vandalism issues promptly.

In addition to the above, the Contractor is also expected to ensure:

d)  Former Tenant's notices are dealt with efficiently and effectively having regard to the circumstances of tenancy cessation.

Where void clearance in accordance with Annex IV is undertaken, the Contractor is encouraged to use recycling services for items of furniture, etc. otherwise due for disposal.

____________________________________________________________________________________________

58 Consider deletion for non-HRA schemes where the Landlord policy may apply instead of the Authority policy.

59 Only applicable to regeneration type schemes – delete as appropriate.