Why First Time Access Matters
South Essex Homes needs to check homes every year to make sure they are safe. First time access means letting our surveyors or our contractors in the first time they come to visit, especially when they need to carry out checks which keep you, your family, and your neighbours safe. This includes the stock condition survey which is vitally important.
Safety Comes First
Gas cookers and boilers need to be checked regularly to make sure they're working safely. If there's a problem, our engineers can fix it or disconnect it to prevent any danger. They'll also check your fire alarm and replace it if needed.
These visits help prevent serious issues like gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning, and they only take a short time.
It's Not Just About Gas
There are also other times when South Essex Homes may need access to your home. This could be for:
- Electrical inspections or rewires
- Stock condition surveys
- Damp and mould inspections
- Asbestos checks
- Fire door checks
- Window replacements
- Kitchen or bathroom upgrades
- General maintenance or improvement works
Allowing us in the first time helps these jobs get done quickly, with less disruption to you.
Save Time, Stay Safe
Letting our colleagues and contractors in on their first visit means problems can be sorted sooner. It also avoids delays, missed appointments, and extra costs. Plus, regular checks help your home run more efficiently, this means you could even end up saving money on energy bills!
It's a Legal Requirement
Many of the safety checks are required by law, and both South Essex Homes and tenants have a duty to make sure homes are safe. If someone keeps not letting us in to carry out important works, we may take legal action for breach of tenancy or to gain entry by other means.
In fact, South Essex Homes has recently gained two court injunctions to get into properties these can last up to the lifetime of the tenancy and mean that we can get access any time we need to. We have also recently secured two court warrants to force entry for electrical testing. These steps are only taken when it is the last option, but they show how serious the issue can become.
A Little Effort Goes a Long Way
If you get a letter or phone call about a visit, please try to be home. These checks don't take long, and it helps keep your home safe. Alternatively, if you are not able to be home for the appointment, please call back on 0800 833 160 or the phone number provided to you, to rearrange.
And here's a bonus: if you book your appointment with Sureserve Compliance Central and let them in on the first visit, you'll be entered into a prize draw to win £100!