Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: February 12, 2025

Purpose: The report sets out for approval the Council’s HRA rent setting arrangements for council tenants from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026  

Content: The Executive Mayor and Cabinet RESOLVED;   2.1 to agree the social rents increase of 2.7% from April 2025 based on the current final year of the government’s Social Housing Rent Policy (applying September 2024 CPI + 1%)   2.2 to agree the request to set the tenants service charges increase at the same level as the rents (2.7%) for the financial year 2025-26   2.3 to agree the continuation of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) hardship fund aimed at assisting tenants who are financially impacted by the 2025-26 rent increase, subject to obtaining a further Direction in appropriate terms from the Secretary of State.   2.4 to agree, the nil increase to the garage rents on the proviso that a full review of the viability of assets is carried out in 2025-26.   2.5 to agree the request to set the increase in the caravan site plot charges in line with September CPI of 1.7%   2.6 to note the continual implementation of the Social Rent Policy flexibility to social rents. This enables an additional 5% above formula rent to be charged in general needs accommodation and 10% in supported housing on relets.   2.7 to note that there will be additional service charges levied on specific properties after the introduction of new grounds maintenance contracts.   2.8 to delegate authority to the Corporate Director of Housing, in consultation with Cabinet member for Homes, to make adjustments to the service charge levied on the provision of the extra care services for the provision of the extra care services, plus enhancements to the stock condition which are in addition to the regular life cycle of repairs and maintenance.