Decision details

In respect of questions raised by Members, the Assistant Director (Housing & Investment) commented:

·      the potential transfer of homes following the death of a tenant who had benefitted from aids and adaptations was dealt with on a case by case basis.  If others were left in the household, it often took some time to provide them with suitable alternative accommodation.  Conversely, it could also take time to find a suitable tenant to benefit from aids and adaptations already carried out to a property ready to be re-let;

·      the referral system would aim to ensure that regular tenancy checks were undertaken by officers to identify potential vulnerable tenants who could benefit from aids and adaptation works.

The Portfolio Holder for Housing, Health & Older People was asked to respond to the recent Government consultation on Aids and Adaptations, requesting that a more flexible approach be introduced regarding the national Disabled Facility Grant limit of £30,000, including the possible increase of this limit, to reflect the higher construction costs in more affluent areas of the UK.

The Executive supported the Leader’s suggestion that the policy should include a statement referring to the fact that the Council was continuing to monitor the delivery of aids and adaptations through the Hertfordshire Home Improvement Agency (HHIA).

It was RESOLVED:

1.         That the Aids and Adaptation Policy document, as attached at Appendix A to the report, and as amended, be approved.

2.         That delegated authority be given to the Assistant Director (Housing and Investment), having consulted the Portfolio Holder for Housing, Health and Older People, to approve any minor future revisions to the Policy.

3.         That delegated authority be given to the Assistant Director (Housing and Investment), having consulted the Portfolio Holder for Housing, Health and Older People, to approve appropriate processes and procedures in order to implement the Policy, and to approve any future revisions to them.

Reason for Decision:  As contained in report.

Other Options considered:  As contained in report.