Tenancy Strategy Sarah Farrow Strategy & Performance Team Leader Northampton Borough Council

Background Localism Act – Part 7 Chapter 2 (s ) Regulatory Standards Tenancy Strategy by 15 th January 2013 Tenancy Policy after April 2012

Who is Tenancy Strategy aimed at? Covers all housing providers in Northampton PRP’s have to have regard to it, but not compulsory under Localism Act. New tenants

Purpose What kind of tenancies to offer Circumstances in which a particular tenancy will be granted Where tenancies granted for a certain term, the length of the terms The circumstances in which they will grant a further tenancy on the ending of the existing tenancy

What is in Northampton’s Tenancy Strategy The Strategy:- Defines length of tenancy and types of tenure Details circumstances for a review and the process

What is in Northampton’s Tenancy Strategy Existing Tenancy Types NBC:  Secure Tenancy  Introductory Tenancy  Temporary Non Secure Tenancies

What is in Northampton’s Tenancy Strategy Proposed Tenancy Types NBC:  Secure Tenancy  Fixed Term Tenancy  Introductory Tenancy  Temporary Non Secure Tenancies

What is in Northampton’s Tenancy Strategy Proposed Length of Tenancies – Existing Tenants:- Households moving via Homechoice (to social or affordable rented properties) Lifetime Mutual ExchangesLifetime

What is in Northampton’s Tenancy Strategy Proposed Length of Tenancies – New Tenants:- Older People (state retirement age)Lifetime Disabled ( Mobility Level 1 or 2)Lifetime Families (inc single parents)5 years Single and 2 person households5 years

What is in Northampton’s Tenancy Strategy Exceptional Circumstances Extension of introductory tenancy due to ASB2 years Overcrowded but no alternative accommodation2 years In an area where shorter tenancies would tackle ASB2 years Notice of Seeking Possession issued but payment plan maintained2 years Empty Homes Programme property with less than 5 years on leaseRemainder of lease

What is in Northampton’s Tenancy Strategy Succession Rights:- Existing tenants:- retain succession rights New Tenants:- succession rights limited to spouses, partners and co-habitees

What is in Northampton’s Tenancy Strategy Circumstances for a non-renewal on review Property under occupied Changes to Household make-up or Household Income Property no longer suitable I.e. adapted property no longer suitable for tenants needs Tenant and/or advocate do not engage in review process Possession Proceedings commenced Disposal or refurbishment of property

What is in Northampton’s Tenancy Strategy Review Process Review undertaken 12 months before end 6 months notice given Help and advice available from Housing Options Min 2 months Notice Seeking Possession Tenant has right to request a review - must be within 21 days

Next Steps Consultation for 16 weeks from next week During 16 weeks, amend existing and create new tenancy type agreements Revised Changes November Cabinet December