You must report any repairs needed to us as soon as possible.

But did you know that if we have to carry out any repairs due to damage caused accidentally, wilfully, or negligently by you, someone from your household or someone visiting you, you will be responsible for the cost of the repair?  This is known as a rechargeable repair.

Last year the council spent over half a million pounds on rechargeable repairs.  These range from changing locks and replacing broken windows to fixing alterations which have been carried out by tenants without written consent.

Some tenants however are yet to repay the council for the rechargeable repair required within their home. This means that money that should be spent on delivering housing services has to be used to offset the rechargeable repairs tenants have failed to pay back.

To help avoid rechargeable repairs, make sure you:

• keep your home in a good condition
• maintain any fixtures and fittings you have installed yourself
• keep your garden and shared areas clean and tidy
• ensure members of your family or visitors treat your home with respect

If you need to report a repair which you know will be rechargeable, you will be responsible for paying the full cost of this repair. For those unable to pay the full amount immediately, an option to pay in instalments may be offered.

For more information on rechargeable repairs, contact the Repairs Team or your local housing officer.