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Taking the initiative to identify and resolve issues
Tackling condensation
D uring the colder months, it’s important to allow excess moisture out of our homes to avoid condensation issues - as one resident discovered after reporting an issue through our repairs process. With condensation droplets on walls and mould growth starting in corners and on window seals in their rented bungalow, our property surveyor worked with them to monitor and understand the notably high humidity and condensation levels.
Once the surveyor restored their extractor fans, the resident implemented their recommendations: • To keep kitchen and bathroom doors shut • Have kitchen and bathroom windows open or the extractor fan on when doing or drying washing, cooking, or bathing. Their combined approach has reduced humidity and condensation levels significantly, addressing the issues and preventing a recurrence.
P roperty Surveyor Sean Johnston explains how Property and Assets colleagues are building stronger connections while they identify and address issues in buildings across our housing communities. “Half of my time is spent at locations, overseeing contractors, completing surveys and providing advice to local and area managers and residents on building issues or repairs. It’s a collaborative way of working that’s building great relationships and momentum, providing better outcomes for residents” Sean’s remaining time is spent supporting planned works – our schedule of refurbishment and replacement of things like bathrooms and kitchens. He conducts on-site surveys, prepares documentation, checks planned works and repairs are meeting
the required standards, works with contractors and resident liaison officers, and attends resident meetings ahead of the works. “With surveyors overseeing both planned works and repairs, our knowledge of one informs the other, as we might identify something needs replacing because we’re aware of repeated repair requests for it.”
routine ‘Don’t Walk By’ inspections, is helping us to identify issues at an earlier stage and reprioritise planned works effectively.” “For example, if I see something assigned for replacement next year has much more life left than something listed for three years’ time. I can change the scheduling to ensure we’re spending money when and where it’s needed.”
Get out and about more, for less T here’s good news for those who don’t yet qualify for a senior travel pass, as the
government has extended its bus fare cap, which was due to end on 31 March. This means a single fare will cost no more than £2 throughout spring and into early summer, until the cap ends on 30 June.
Property surveyors like Sean routinely check for and provide advice on building issues residents may encounter.
“Electronically recording useful information and an action list during our
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