Purpose

The Council has committed to the Regulator of
Social Housing to complete 100% stock condition surveys by the end
of March 2026. To date, the project has been delivered by an
external provider, which has proven effective overall. However,
they have encountered challenges in reaching the final 13% of
properties. Following a review, it has been identified that a more
efficient and cost-effective solution would be to engage staff via
external agencies to complete the remaining surveys.
To ensure compliance with both internal and external procurement
regulations, the Council intends to source external agency staff
via the Crown Commercial Service framework.”

Decision

Supply of 2 stock condition surveyors, one
full time and one part time, supplied by Venn Group via the Crown
Commercial Services Framework. Roles will complete the remaining
approx. 1200 stock condition surveys for DBC council Housing.
Both surveyors passed interviews with DBC officers and have
reference checks / relevant DBC check. Estimated costs including
agency fees and expenses for 30 weeks is £132,417.

Alternative options considered

Continue with Current Outsourced Provider
(Rejected).
While the provider has achieved 87% access, they are struggling to
reach the remaining 13%, limiting overall effectiveness.
Secondment of Current Outsourced Surveyor to DBC (Rejected).
The hourly rates proposed were higher than those available via
agency routes, making this option less cost-effective.
Alternative Agencies
Three agencies were considered and rejected for the following
reasons:
- One agency proposed a single candidate who was less suitable and
quoted a higher rate.
- Two agencies failed to provide any suitable candidates.