East Suffolk Council

Housing alterations by tenants

There are some repairs that the council are unable to undertake on behalf of tenants and, as such, tenants themselves would be responsible should they wish these to be undertaken.

The following items are currently not undertaken:

• Replacing toilet seats
• Changing light bulbs, fluorescent tubes and starters
• Replacing linen lines, posts and rotary dryers
• Internal decorations
• Replacing lost or damaged door keys
• Replacing batteries to smoke detectors
• Replacing plugs and chains to baths, basins, sinks
• Works to outside toilets
• Gates and gate latches
• Any damage caused by malicious or accidental damage
• Replacing shower curtains
• Maintenance of gardens
• Any items you may have installed yourself or non-installed council items left by previous tenants. Items installed by previous tenants will only be left if specifically requested by the new tenant and a letter will be sent advising of the council's position with regard to future maintenance
• Internal doors
• Internal door furniture (unless elderly)
• Domestic door bells
• Replacing fences
• Replacing cords for electrical pull cord units
• Washing of external PVCu products such as doors, windows, cladding etc

Tenant improvements

Tenants may make improvements to their homes, however written permission must be gained from the council beforehand.

The council will not unreasonably withhold permission from tenants to make improvements, however all costs of improvement and ongoing maintenance costs, if applicable, will have to be covered by the tenant.

Please also be aware that if the council are required to make any alteration safe as an emergency the tenant will be recharged for the costs of the works. An example of this could be if you have undertaken your own electrical works and it is deemed unsafe.

In some circumstances, tenants may also need to seek either planning permission or building regulation approval prior to commencing works.

Tenants should not commence any work before gaining permission.

Can I claim compensation for alterations I make?  

Certain improvements are eligible for compensation should you leave the property soon after they have taken place. At the time of terminating your tenancy you should enquire into your eligibility and provide invoices for the work undertaken.