Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: November 19, 2024

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED: Cabinet: a)    Note the findings from recent inspections and due diligence on NPH’s performance b)    Noted the content of this report and the steps being taken to improve the performance of NPH c)     Noted that the Council will be taking forward the delivery of large-scale social housing developments in future. d)    Noted the Business Improvement Action Plan detailed in Appendix A e)    Approved the revised governance arrangements between the Council and NPH detailed in Appendix B.   REASONS RESOLVED: 1.     The Management Agreement sets out a requirement for NPH to report performance information to the Council at regular intervals. The Council’s Cabinet receives information on the performance of NPH designed to give WNC the necessary assurance as landlord and as the Registered Provider, that its housing stock is being managed in accordance with the provisions within the Management Agreement, and in line with the Council’s expectations, and in accordance with relevant legislation and regulation. 2.     Recent changes in the legislation and regulations have seen an increased focus on decent homes standards and in the legal responsibilities of the Council. Both have led to the Council strengthening its monitoring and oversight capacity and seeking more detailed information on the conditions of its housing stock in relation to the standards required by the Regulator of Social Housing under the consumer standards. 3.     It has become clear to the Council through this process that there are serious shortcomings in relation to a number of standards linked to Health and Safety and that past reporting may not have accurately reflected the true level of compliance across the Councils housing stock. 4.     In addition reviews were completed in relation a number of large development schemes that NPH had been progressing that highlighted both viability and financial issues. 5.     It is important that the Councils now shares the findings and its early discussions with the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) and more critically provides clear plans for the steps it is taking to address the concerns uncovered and ensure that all its residents are living in good quality and safe homes.   ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: The Council will consider every option available to ensure the delivery of its housing management services are in line with regulatory requirements. This includes future consideration of bringing services under direct Council delivery and control. Any changes to the current delivery model would require detailed business planning, tenant consultation and secretary of state approval.