The policy provided the Council with the tools to be able to re-charge the residents who do not comply with the terms and conditions of the tenancy agreement or lease agreement and therefore help to keep rents and service charges low.

The Recharge Policy had been written as a result of the modernisation programme and allows for a more cost efficient service.

The Brentwood Borough Council (BBC) Tenancy Agreement states that the tenant, those living with the tenant and their visitors must take reasonable care to prevent damage to the property, decoration, fixtures and fittings, BBC supplied furniture (if applicable),communal areas and neighbouring properties.

There are a small number of residents who do not value their homes or take responsibility for ensuring they comply with the terms and conditions of their tenancy or lease relating to property standards.

Housing Officers and Contractors are working alongside repairs to identify, impose and chase recharge payments.

A motion was MOVED by Cllr Hossack and SECONDED by Cllr Squirrell

A vote was taken by a show of hands and it was RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY:

1.    To approve the new Recharge Policy

REASON FOR DECISION

To note the work of Estates Management and the Repairs teams and their commitment to reducing costs to help keep rents and service charges low for residents.

To approve a new Recharge Policy in line with best practice and to assist in the Getting our House in Order Modernisation Programme and efforts to help keep rents and service charges low.

The Chair would like to thank all the Housing Team for the work that had been undertaken on delivery of all the projects discussed this evening and behind the scenes.