Recharges
When you leave a council property we may have to make repairs so it is in a fit state to be let to another tenant. We will recharge the cost to you if repairs are needed for:
- tenant damage
- vandalism
- neglect
Examples of damage and vandalism include:
- doors – missing doors, damage to hinges and architrave, fitting of external or internal doors that are not council standard
- windows – smashed or cracked glass, damage to opening windows or frame
- kitchen units – damaged unit doors, drawers and worktop, beyond normal wear and tear
- bathroom – damage to bathroom suite other than normal wear and tear
We will also recharge costs if we find within the property, loft spaces, storage cupboards and garden areas, any:
- rubbish
- personal belongings
- furniture
- floor coverings such as carpets or laminate – grippers to remain
- curtain rails and curtains – nets can be left if in good condition
- pictures, mirrors and miscellaneous fittings
- fixtures and fittings, such as light fittings, installed by the tenant
- sheds or greenhouses
- ponds – these must be removed and backfilled
Keys and fobs must be returned in the numbers supplied. There will be a recharge for missing:
- window keys – 5 supplied to each property
- key entry fobs – 2 supplied to each property
- security keys – 2 supplied to each property
We will gather evidence for presenting at court if it necessary to recover money owed.
When charges will not apply
No recharges will be raised when:
- the tenant is deceased
- the tenant is known to be vulnerable
- the recharges would be under £50
- an item has been reported with the last 12 months for a repair
The age of items will be considered. We won't recharge for alteration to properties if it can be shown that the alteration:
- was made to an item that had reached the end of its life
- has not caused an increase in replacement costs
- the tenant had sought permission to replace or repair the item
No administration costs are applied to recharges.