Applying for permission to make improvements to your home
Only assured tenants can make alterations or improvements to their home. You must get our permission before you carry out any alterations or improvements. Requests to improve your home are not usually approved if you have rent arrears. You can get more details and an application form by ringing our Contact centre or contacting any Housing Hartlepool Office.
Types of alterations include:
- Patio Doors
- Internal Door
- Fitting laminate or wood floors
- Installing gas or electric fires
- Fencing and walls
- Showers or bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Changes to wiring or lighting, including external lights
- Conservatories, porches, sheds or garages
- Removal of walls
- Built in wardrobes or cupboards
You will be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of any alterations you make, and you may be asked to remove them if you give up your tenancy.
When you ask for permission,
We will:
- Visit your property and consider your request
- Tell you about any planning or building applications you will have to make
- Assess any impact on your neighbours
- Write to you with a decision within 10 days
We may:
- Inspect works whilst they are being carried out
- Inspect works on completion
If work is dangerous or unsafe, or done without permission, we will ask you to return the property to its original condition. If you don't, we will do the work and charge you the costs. We will also charge you for any administration costs.
At the end of your tenancy you may be entitled to compensation for authorised improvements. We will only pay compensation if certain conditions have been met. A leaflet 'A better deal for tenants - Your right to Compensation for Improvements' is available to download here. Alternatively they are available in all Housing Hartlepool offices or by telephoning 01429 525252.