Housing Sector Podcast Episode #24 — "Maybe Size Does Matter" with Sharon Brady-Wardrope
With the latest Tenant Satisfaction Measures indicating that smaller organisations consistently outperform larger counterparts, I wanted to uncover the reasons behind this success.
To get to the heart of it, I spoke with Sharon Brady-Wardrope, Director at Forth Housing Association Ltd. Together, we examine key factors that might contribute to these strong tenant satisfaction results among smaller providers:
Housing Sector Podcast Episode 23: Service Charge - are you being correctly charged?
In this episode, I’m joined by housing expert Ebrahim Goolamally to break down everything you need to know about service charges. We explore how you can verify whether your service charge has been correctly calculated, understand what you're actually paying for, and ensure you're not being overcharged.
Ebrahim also shares practical steps you can take if you believe your service charge is incorrect, including how to approach your housing provider, what evidence to gather, and when to escalate the issue.
Whether you're a tenant, leaseholder, or simply curious about the often-confusing world of service charges, this episode provides essential guidance to help you navigate the system and protect your rights.
Housing Sector Podcast Episode 22: "More ASB with Jacqueline Parkes"
In this episode, I delve deep into the complexities surrounding antisocial behaviour (ASB) within the housing sector, exploring the nuances of eviction, support, and community responsibility. I’m joined once again by Jacqueline Parkes to unpack the gaps in ASB laws and how housing associations navigate the delicate balance between eviction and support.
Do housing associations have the right systems in place to effectively evict tenants for antisocial behaviour?
What happens when the root causes of ASB stem from mental health issues or substance dependencies? Are these tenants in need of support, rather than punitive measures?
How should housing associations respond when the behaviour is being perpetrated by tenants’ children? Is it fair to penalise parents who are unable to control their kids?
Are housing associations doing enough to safeguard the well-being of all tenants and ensure peaceful communities?
Housing Sector Podcast Episode 21 - The Service Charge Issue
In this episode of the Housing Sector Podcast, I sit down with Suz from SHAC (Social Housing Action Campaign) to discuss the ongoing service charge crisis. Residents across the country are facing ever-increasing service charges, often while enduring poor repairs and significant delays in maintenance. These mounting issues could push many residents to consider a service charge strike, a move that carries serious consequences. From the potential criminalisation of residents to housing associations pursuing legal action and even eviction, the stakes are high.
Suz and I dive deep into the challenges faced by tenants and shared owners, offering guidance and insights for those affected by these rising costs. We explore what residents can do, how to navigate this difficult situation, and why the housing sector needs urgent reform to protect vulnerable tenants