CORS survey July 2020 responses report - overview
Updated 14 May 2021
Applies to England
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Providers’ written responses show that the delivery of services is stable, and that work towards addressing backlogs has started. The vast majority of providers are working through backlogs of non-emergency repairs in line with latest government guidance and generally report that backlogs are decreasing.
Most providers confirm that tenants’ repairs reporting is almost back to pre-covid levels and that they are working through backlogs, some having resourced additional contractor services and supplies. Under current projections, providers widely anticipate that backlogs of non-emergency repairs will be addressed by the end of 2020 – for some providers by as early as September.
More providers have been able to complete all statutory gas safety checks in July than in June. Providers continue to report some challenges accessing properties, but the number of tenants refusing access is falling sharply. This is driving an improvement in gas safety check compliance.
On care and support, most providers are reporting no issues with staffing. Face-to-face support services are resuming, and communal areas are being reopened.
A small number of providers have reported impacts of localised lockdowns and others are reporting they are preparing for a potential second wave or for future local lockdowns, for example by increasing stocks of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other materials or carrying out health and safety checks (electrical, gas, fire risk assessments) earlier than scheduled.
These surveys are not regulatory returns. If a provider believes tenant safety is threatened or viability is under strain, they should not wait for the survey but should speak to their key contact at the regulator, or our Referrals and Regulatory Enquiries team, via enquiries@rsh.gov.uk or 0300 124 5225. Providers with fewer than 1,000 homes should use our dedicated email address SmallProviders@rsh.gov.uk.