We are continuing to set high standards for our properties after we recently agreed to spend £30,000 per year on a new cleaning contract.

Our Executive agreed to let the contract to Sweet Aroma who will undertake cleaning of our empty properties (also called void properties) across the District over a four-year period, starting in July 2023.

We manage over 5,000 properties and the contract will run up to four-years, seeing any empty properties cleaned to a high standard so they can be re-let as quickly as possible.

The contract will involve thoroughly cleaning approximately 275 properties a year including washing down and cleaning all floors, cleaning all kitchen units inside and out and cleaning all architraves skirting boards and dado rails.

Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Sandra Peake said, “We have huge demands for our properties, so it is essential that once they become empty, we do everything in our power to get them back up to standard and ready to let again.

“Entering into this contract with Sweet Aroma will enable us to reduce the amount of time a property is left empty and ensure it is up to our high standards to let, meaning we can continue to help local people and families find a decent home to live.”

Sweet Aroma were one of two companies who tendered for the contract in April 2023.