Waverley Borough Council has received a C2 grading following a recent thorough inspection by the Regulator of Social Housing - just one below the maximum possible grade. This result highlights the council’s dedication to providing quality housing and services for its tenants but that more work is needed to continue making improvements.
The Regulator highlighted several strengths in the council’s performance. It acknowledged that the council has an accurate record of the condition of its homes and has appropriate systems in place to ensure the health and safety of tenants including the management of risks associated with damp and mould.
Additionally, it was noted that the council works effectively with partner agencies to deter and tackle anti-social behaviour and hate incidents and offers tenancies that are compatible with both the needs of individual households and the sustainability of the community. The Regulator also commended the council’s commitment to treating tenants with fairness and respect and feedback from tenants has positively impacted on service delivery.
The Regulator identified there are some weaknesses that the council needs to address, including a number of homes that are failing to meet the Decent Homes Standard, and shortcomings in the provision of an effective, efficient and timely repairs service. Additionally, it was noted that the council could do more to broaden the range of tenants it engages with and improve the diversity information it holds about its tenants.
The Regulator was assured that the council has plans in place to address weaknesses and will continue to seek assurance that progress is made so that outcomes for tenants are improved.
Councillor Paul Rivers, Waverley Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Housing (Operations and Services), welcomed the findings:
“I thank the Regulator’s team for the constructive way they worked with us and thank our Tenants Panel for their valuable input and engagement during the process. These inspections are a great opportunity to reflect on our progress and keep improving. At Waverley, our goal is simple: to provide the best possible homes and services for our tenants.
“We’re pleased that the report recognised our strengths, and I find it very encouraging that any areas requiring improvement are already well on our radar. We have plans in place to make meaningful changes, ensuring every council-owned home is well-maintained and every tenant feels heard and valued.”
The report can be read on the Regulator of Social Housing website here: Waverley Borough Council - GOV.UK