Stock condition survey

To keep our resident's homes up to standard, we need to know about the condition of the buildings and the individual homes. We build this knowledge by carrying out surveys in each home we manage to help us plan work. 

Carrying out these surveys is not just 'useful' for us as a landlord; it's something we have to do under the regulations for social housing. During our inspection earlier in the year, the Regulator said this is something we need to improve on.

It benefits residents as it allows us to pick up on any hazards or urgent work that's needed, and lets us plan major works and improvements.

We're well underway with our current round of surveys and we're aiming to have surveyed all of our tenanted homes by the end of 2026.

Help us improve what we know about our homes

A company called Rapleys are carrying out the surveys on our behalf. If you have received a letter or calling card from Rapleys, please be sure to confirm your appointment with them, as it is very important that the survey is completed.

You can call them on 01480 371 460 to schedule your appointment.

Alternatively, you can call our customer service centre on 0800 137 111 and ask to speak to a member of the asset management team, or you can email: [email protected].  

FAQs 

What is a Stock Condition Survey?

A stock condition survey is a comprehensive, visual inspection of your home's inside and outside, including an assessment of the age and condition of all the main structural elements and components, such as the kitchen, bathroom, windows and doors, roof, and gutters and downpipes. 

Why have I been asked to take part in the condition survey? 

We are surveying all our housing stock to help improve the quality of the information we hold, and to provide an accurate picture of the overall condition of homes. It won’t automatically mean work will be carried out at your home in the immediate future. It will just make sure any information we hold about your home is up to date.  

Who will be completing the surveys?

Rapleys LLP will be carrying out the surveys on our behalf. They have experience in completing stock condition surveys and energy performance assessments for various housing organisations throughout the UK. Our surveyors will knock to see if you’re at home to carry out the survey. If you’re not, they may look at your garden, boundaries and surrounding areas, but they’ll have a list of alternative addresses that they can survey if you aren’t available on that day. The surveyor will be carrying a photographic ID, which they will show on arrival.

When will I know when my survey is due?

You will receive a letter from us to let you know when your survey is due. Rapleys will follow up to book a suitable appointment for the survey to be conducted. The project is due to take two years to complete, as we will survey all homes across the borough. Please be patient with us as we work to reach all residents as soon as possible.

What does the survey involve, and where will the surveyor need access to? 

The surveyor will need access to all rooms, including the loft and all external areas. The surveyor will bring their own ladders and may also need to ask you a few questions to help clarify certain information. Photos may be taken for our internal use and record purposes only. 

How long will the survey take? 

The survey should take no more than 25-30 minutes. The time taken will vary depending on the size of your home, as well as whether the surveyor has already visited a similar property in your street. 

Will I receive a copy of the survey report for my home?

A copy of the survey report will be shared with residents upon request.

Do leaseholders have to have the survey? 

No, surveys will only be carried out in tenanted homes. 

Will the survey cost me anything? 

There is no cost for tenants. If you are a leaseholder, a maximum of up to £100 could be recharged.