Safety checks and upgrades: working together to keep us safe

One of the most persistent challenges facing local councils is gaining access to tenants’ homes for essential safety checks and improvement works. Councils carry a statutory duty to ensure properties meet safety standards and receive necessary upgrades.

This includes vital safety checks such as annual gas inspections, which are required by law. Councils do not request access unless it's absolutely necessary to keep homes safe and compliant with regulations.

This creates a delicate balance: how can councils fulfil their obligations without resorting to legal action? Technically, councils could seek court orders to gain entry, but is that really the route anyone wants to take? Most agree that such measures should be a last resort.

So, what’s the solution?

Communication: building trust between tenants and the council workforce is key.

Tenants need clear answers to practical questions:

• When will the workforce arrive? Let tenants know if you’re going to be late.
• What work needs to be done?
• How long will it take?
• Will there be any mess?

We, as tenants need to:

• Be in when we have agreed to be. Let the council know if this changes.
• Allow access for works to be completed

Providing this information upfront can ease concerns and foster cooperation.

As councils strive to meet their responsibilities, improving dialogue may be the most effective – and least confrontational – way forward for both parties.

Let’s work together, make life easier and ultimately make homes safer and more comfortable for everyone.

Wayne Hobson

Tenants Action Group