Decent Homes – what does it really mean?

There has been a lot of talk about what Decent Homes work will bring. Decent Homes funding is dependant on Lewisham Homes achieving a two-star inspection result in 2009/10. The definition of a ‘decent home’ is very specific, as outlined below.

 

To be defined as decent, a home must:

Be above the current statutory minimum standard for housing and therefore must comply with all of the following: 

• Free from serious disrepair.
• Structurally stable.
• Free from dampness prejudicial to the health. 
• Adequate provision for lighting, heating and ventilation. 
• Adequate piped supply of wholesome water.
• Effective drainage for drainage of foul, waste, surface water. 
• Suitably located WC for exclusive use of the occupants. 
• Bath or shower and wash-hand basin, with hot/cold water.
• Satisfactory facilities for the preparation and cooking of food including a sink with hot and cold water. 

 

Be in a reasonable state of repair. It must not have: 

• Any roofs, windows, doors, heating or electrics in old and poor condition and in need of major repair or replacement.
• Two or more of either kitchens, bathrooms and heating pipes in old and poor condition and in need of major repair or replacement.

 

Have reasonably modern facilities and services. It must not lack three or more of the following: 

• Kitchen under 20 years old.
• Kitchen with adequate space and layout.
• Bathroom under 30 years old.
• An appropriately located WC.
• Adequate insulation from external noise.
• Adequate size and layout of common areas in flats. 

 

Provide a reasonable degree of thermal comfort. It must have:

• A programmable heating system.
• Any wall cavities filled and lofts insulated. 

 

When we programme the Decent Homes works we will look at every property and see how it matches the above standard. We will then carry out the works to bring the property to the standard. This does not mean that replacing all bathrooms and kitchens will make the property decent. The works will be dependant upon the individual property needs.