Purpose

The contract will cover day to day repairs for GBC-owned properties (c.5000) and to support commercial buildings.

Decision

1. 1 That the Strategic Director of Finance and Resources resolves to:
   Approve the award of a contract to Axis Europe Limited for the provision of reactive repairs for a period of eighteen (18) months, commencing on 1 October 2026, at a total contract value of £6,000,000.00 (six million pounds).
   
   

Reasons for the decision

1 The Council currently receives responsive repairs and management support services through a contract with Axis Europe Limited that is due to expire on 30 September 2026. An interim contractual arrangement is required to ensure the continued delivery of essential repairs services to council tenants while longer-term service delivery arrangements are developed and procured.
2 The proposed award to Axis Europe Limited through the NHMF Frameworx Responsive Maintenance 2025 Framework (Lot 3) provides a compliant procurement route and represents an efficient means of securing continuity of service. The use of an established framework also reduces procurement timescales and implementation risk when compared with undertaking a standalone procurement exercise.
3 Responsive repairs services are critical to the Council's ability to fulfil its statutory obligations as a social housing landlord. The proposed contract will ensure that tenants continue to receive essential repairs and maintenance services and that the Council's housing stock is maintained in a safe and habitable condition.
4 The recommended approach provides an appropriate interim solution while the Council progresses work on a wider, longer-term responsive repairs procurement, including the potential for a future joint arrangement with Waverley Borough Council and consideration of future local government reorganisation requirements.
5 Awarding the contract to the incumbent provider will minimise mobilisation and service transition risks, as the contractor already has knowledge of the Council's housing stock, operational requirements and existing service delivery arrangements. This will help ensure stability of service provision throughout the interim contract period.

Alternative options considered

Do Nothing – Not Recommended. Under this option, the Council would not award an interim responsive repairs contract following the expiry of the current arrangements on 30 September 2026. This would create a significant risk of service disruption, adversely impact the Council's ability to meet its statutory obligations as a social housing landlord, and could result in delays to essential repairs for residents. The option would also expose the Council to increased operational, financial and reputational risks.