Purpose

To set out the proposed Disrepair Policy,
intended for implementation to manage disrepair claims, ensure
compliance with legal standards and provide clarity for tenants and
officers of North Yorkshire Council.

A decision is required regarding the adoption and implementation of
the policy.

Decision

That the Executive Member approves the
adoption of the Disrepair Policy, and delegates authority to the
Assistant Director of Housing to make minor amendments to the
policy as required by changes in regulation or
legislation

Reasons for the decision

The report highlights how the Disrepair Policy
enables North Yorkshire Council to meet its legal obligations by
managing property maintenance. It promotes early intervention,
clearly defines roles and response times, and supports timely
resolution. This approach helps prevent issues from escalating into
legal disputes, reduces associated costs, and strengthens trust,
transparency, and fairness in the Council’s relationship with
its tenants.

Alternative options considered

Continuing with previous procedures instead of
adopting a single Disrepair Policy was not recommended, as it would
lead to inconsistent service standards, unequal treatment of
tenants, and inefficiencies in managing repairs. Without a unified
approach, staff may rely on outdated or conflicting processes,
causing confusion, delays, and potential risks to service quality
and legal compliance. It would also hinder the Council’s
ability to ensure accountability, monitor performance, and deliver
a fair and transparent service across all areas.