URL: https://committeeadmin.lancaster.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1588

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: Seeking Cabinet approval to go out to consultation to review Council Housing Tenancy Agreement

Content: (Cabinet Member with Special Responsibility Councillor Caroline Jackson)   Cabinet received a report from the Chief Officer Housing & Property that sought approval from Cabinet to consult with tenants on proposed changes to the council housing Tenancy Agreement relating to secure and introductory tenants.   The options, options analysis, including risk assessment and officer preferred option, were set out in the report as follows:     Option 1: Do nothing – continue with the existing tenancy agreement Option 2: Cabinet approves the proposal to revise the tenancy agreement Advantages Simplicity of continuation. Cost savings (minimal e.g. postage costs) The tenancy agreement is updated to ensure that it meets current standards and requirements, and is fit for purpose.   The tenancy agreement remains an effective management tool.   The Tenancy Agreement provides tenants with sufficient information to understand their rights and obligations in relation to their home. Disadvantages The existing tenancy agreement does not reflect current standards and requirements. This may mean that the Council does not meet the required consumer standards. Costs of implementation will be incurred with postage – writing to tenants twice. Risks The tenancy agreement will not be wholly fit for purpose as an effective management tool.   The Regulator of Social Housing deems the Tenancy Agreement to be outdated and not fit for purpose, this could be a breach of the consumer standards. None known.   The Officer preferred option is Option 2 for the reasons set out above.   Councillor Caroline Jackson proposed, seconded by Councillor Bannon:-   “That the recommendations, as set out in the report, be approved.”   Councillors then voted:-   Resolved unanimously: (1)        That the Community Housing Manager be authorised to consult with tenants regarding the proposed changes to the Tenancy Agreement and to serve the necessary preliminary notice of variation.   (2)        That a further report be brought to Members following the completion of the consultation process seeking final approval.   Officer responsible for effecting the decision:   Chief Officer Housing & Property   Reasons for making the decision:   The need has been identified for the Council to review its tenancy agreement to ensure that the agreement remains fit for purpose and can be used as an effective management tool. The agreement has also been updated to ensure that it meets tenant expectations in terms of clarity and understanding.   The decision is consistent with the Council Plan:  – the proposal supports the Council’s objectives: to be a Co-operative, Kind and Responsible Council and links to the Councils ambitions of Openness and the Councils Standards – Transparency, Influence and Accountability.   The review is being undertaken in line with the Service Improvement Plan – 4.8 Council Housing tenancy agreement and license agreement updated to reflect current practices and in line with best practice and has been given a deadline date of completion of year 2.

Date of Decision: October 21, 2025