Social Landlord Service: Adaptations Policy

9. Adaptations to void or acquired properties

9.1. Adaptations to Void Properties

1. In order to make the most efficient use of existing stock, as set out the Allocations Policy and Scheme, the Council seeks to let adapted properties to those applicants who require them.  
2. The Council will not routinely remove adaptations from void properties or undertake major adaptations to a property whilst it is void.
3. When a property becomes vacant it will be determined whether it is suitable for someone needing adapted accommodation. This determination will be based on whether the property has existing adaptations and or whether it can be adapted to meet the needs of an applicant waiting for re-housing.
4. Where a property can be adapted to meet the needs of an applicant the council will carry out those adaptations once the tenancy has started. Adaptations will not be carried out prior to the commencement of the tenancy unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as:
   • applicant is physically unable to access the property with the provision of a temporary ramp
   • applicant or disabled person has a medical condition that means it would not be safe for them to be in the property while work is carried out. For example, has severe breathing difficulties that would be aggravated by the works and cannot stay with family or friends while the work is on-going, or there is a member of the household with severe autism who cannot live elsewhere while the work is on-going
   • where a property requires void works that if delivered differently would meet the needs of the disabled tenant for example, instead of fitting a new standard bathroom, provide an adapted bathroom
   • where the adaptations required are significant (impacting large parts of the property) or are structural in nature making it unsafe for someone to live in the property while the work is carried out
5. In those circumstances the Council may carry out some or all the adaptations prior to the commencement of tenancy.

 9.2.Adaptations and Acquisitions

1. Subject to available funding, the Council may acquire properties on the open market to meet specific housing needs which cannot be met within the existing stock. When acquiring a property to meet the needs of a disabled household waiting for re-housing, the Council will seek to acquire adapted properties or properties that lend themselves to adaptation at a reasonable cost. 
2. The process for properties acquired for this purpose are outlined in the Council's Use of Retained Receipts Policy and the Acquisitions and disposals policy. These policies can be found on the Council's website.
3. Potential properties to be acquired for this purpose will be surveyed to assess whether they are suitable or can be made suitable for tenants with disabilities before a final decision is made on whether to acquire.
4. Appendix 1 sets out the points and indicative specification that will be considered when acquiring a property to adapt for wheelchair use. This is applicable when considering works in both void properties and properties the Council is seeking to acquire.