Recharge policy

Outline houses in a street

Earlier in the year we asked for tenants feedback on our proposal to recharge tenants when they damage or neglect their home.  

Rubbish left behind by residents

In total 80 tenants responded to our policy and here is what they said

  • 92.5% agreed that tenants should be recharged for neglecting or wilfully damaging their home
     
  • 76% agreed that tenants should be recharged if they do not maintain their garden 
     
  • 74% agreed with our proposal to provide a service to tenants where the repair is needed is their responsibility but the tenant is unable to do it
     
  • 81% agreed that tenants should be recharged for alterations and DIY that has damaged the fabric/structure of the property 
     
  • 65% agreed that a new social home should be withheld until the tenant has paid for the rechargeable repairs 

Bin bags and cardboard

Participants strongly supported a policy of reclaiming costs due to the action or behaviour of tenants. However, there was concern it should be proportionate and flexible, with all the circumstances considered before recharging. Therefore, we are preparing a process that ensures tenants who may be vulnerable or in difficult circumstances are not unfairly treated due to the Council recovering costs.

Following the feedback, Maggie Ward discusses some of the concerns raised in the consultation and some of their suggestions in these video clips.

Withholding property transfers video

Ending a tenancy video

Protecting vulnerable tenants

Discussing tenants suggestions

Back to articles

Submit an idea for the newsletter

We want the newsletter to be tenant focused and what better way to do it than to involve tenants more. So, if you have an article for the tenants' newsletter we would love to hear it and we will also enter you into a prize draw for a £25 gift card

Submit a newsletter article
Newsletter icon

Tenant engagement

Engagement is all about working with and listening to our tenants and leaseholders. Find ways in which you can have more influence over issues affecting your neighbourhood and community, and learn more about how your views have influenced change

Tenant engagement group

Community helpline

Surrey County Council have launched a new community helpline for residents in need of financial, health and welfare support 9am-5pm, Monday – Friday, excluding bank holidays)

Telephone: 0300 200 1008

Large print newsletter

If you would like to receive a large print copy of this newsletter fill in the form and we will send you a copy

Request large print newsletter