Tenant Annual Report 2025

We want every tenant to live in a home that is safe, warm, and well maintained. That's why we continue to invest in homes to make them more energy efficient, meeting modern standards.

We're also preparing for changes to the national Decent Homes Standard, which is a government benchmark that ensures all council housing meets a minimum level of quality for tenants. This includes safe and efficient heating systems, the condition of kitchens and bathrooms, and practical help (such as good insulation) to keep energy bills down.

How we performed in 2024/25

What we achieved in 2024/25

• surveyed the condition of 64% of council homes to identify necessary repairs and improvements
• replaced nearly 1,000 outdated heating systems with modern, energy-efficient combi boilers
• piloted a shared heat network on the Old Fold Estate, removing individual gas boilers for a greener heating solution
• began insulation upgrades in homes built in the 1960s and 1970s
• removed unused garage sites following resident consultation, while investing in garages that remain useful
• improved a shared lounge space in Chopwell in partnership with a local group, making it more accessible and adding catering facilities
• adapted council homes to support families who foster children in our care

In the next 12 months:

• complete condition surveys for all council homes by end of December 2025 
• get feedback from residents on the shared heat network pilot and assess its wider rollout 
• expand insulation improvements to more homes to help reduce energy bills and future maintenance 
• progress with estate improvements, including further work on garages and shared spaces 
• launch a new Asset Management Strategy for 2025-2030 to guide future investment and service delivery 
• work towards 100% of homes meeting the Decent Homes Standard by 2027 
• consult tenants on proposed changes to the Decent Homes Standard