How can I find out if my home is included in the Decent Homes Programme?

You can access the Decent Homes Programme and search for your street.

Will my rent increase to pay for the Decent Homes work?

No.  Rent increases are separate to the Decent Homes improvement works.

Do you install showers as part of the Decent Homes work?

Pipework and electrical wiring is installed where bathrooms are refurbished.  However, a shower unit is not supplied by Sandwell Homes.

I am unable to use the bath, can I have a low level shower tray fitted as part of the Decent Homes work?

Where a bathroom is identified as needing to be replaced, or is accessible by the tenant, the survey team will discuss options of either a standard shower tray, curtain and shower unit, or make a referral to an Occupational Therapist.

How long does the work take?

For all internal works we aim to complete within 7 weeks.

How can I identify Sandwell Homes or Construction Partner employees?

Employees wear identity cards.  Always ask to see this before allowing access to your home.

What about disturbance to my decorations?

Where the works cause damage to your decorations, the Project Officer will issue decoration vouchers.

What is the Decent Homes Standard?

Decent Homes Standard.

Do I have the right to refuse work?

Yes.

Can I have my bathroom replaced but not my kitchen?

The survey team will determine what works need to be undertaken.

Will I have to move out whilst work is taking place?

We will endeavour to carry out all works whilst you remain in your home.  We do provide respite facilities and you should contact your Customer Liaison Officer if you wish to take advantage of these.

What if I am on holiday or in hospital?

When the survey team meet you, they identify any holiday or hospital appointments to schedule work around this.

Will I be consulted about the work and given any choice in style and design?

There are a number of choices that the survey team will offer, dependant on the works required.

I will be having some redecorating work carried out.  Can I choose my own wallpaper?

Redecoration of the kitchen and bathroom is undertaken if you have these rooms improved.  There is a selection of wallpaper for each room.

When will I get new windows?

If there are existing timber or metal windows, we will change these to PVCu windows.

Why can't I have the same work as my neighbour down the road had?

Each property is surveyed individually to determine the condition of all the elements.