Decision details

To consider the recommendations of the Task and Finish Group.

RESOLVED

That the Head of Housing Delivery and Communities be instructed to

implement the following recommendations:

1.     The Council should keep the income threshold at £60,000 per annum and the savings threshold at £30,000. However, this should be reviewed by the Resources Overview and Scrutiny committee or another appropriate O&S committee within 12-18 months.

2.     Establish a process to signpost applicants who are unable to join the housing register due to the income or savings threshold to Affordable Home Ownership Schemes notably shared ownership.

3.     Maintain the existing position that children will only be accommodated in one home even if a 50/50 residence arrangement exists. An exception will be made if there is a court order in place requiring this or if Surrey County Council Children’s Services (or an equivalent organisation elsewhere) provide compelling evidence that a second home is required.

4.     Only housing related debts such as rent arrears and deposit scheme debts to Waverley Borough Council, housing associations and to private landlords should be taken into account when considering eligibility for either inclusion on the housing register or the allocation of a property. Other debts owed to the Council such as council tax or housing benefit overpayments would be disregarded for these purposes.  Housing related debts to private sector landlords is currently under review.

5.     Establish a process by which the Housing Options team signpost applicants unable to join the housing needs register due to debts to local debt advice charities.

[Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee]