Information Bulletin
18 April 2005
House Condition Survey
Around 800 private sector homes including owner occupied, privately rented and crofting properties, have been randomly selected for a stock condition survey organised by Shetland Islands Council.
The survey is a hugely important project that would help to ensure investment and resources continued to be properly allocated and targeted to those sectors of the community most in need by providing the Council with a clear picture of the condition of private housing in Shetland. This will help the Council to apply for Scottish Executive funding to target houses in need of improvements, repairs and disabled adaptations.
The Survey is being undertaken by MHA Ltd who have a dedicated team of experienced interviewers who will be calling at addresses over the next few weeks. Only occupiers of the randomly selected premises will receive a letter informing them about the survey. This will prevent unauthorised surveyors visiting households. MHA Surveyors will make calls during the day, in the evening and at weekends to make sure everybody has an opportunity to be interviewed. All surveyors will be carrying identification cards issued by the Council, but if any resident is in doubt they should telephone MHA Ltd on the dedicated telephone number in the letter sent to them. Also occupiers will be able to contact the dedicated telephone number to make confirmed appointments at a time which is suitable for them.
The survey takes place in two stages. Firstly, an interview with the householder looking at the movement of households and their aspirations; health; views about neighbourhoods and the local environment and repair work done on the house. Secondly, the qualified building professional will carry out a visual inspection of the home, checking it for energy efficiency, disrepair, access for people with disabilities and amenities. The time taken for the two stages should be around 25 minutes in total.
This is a very important survey and if occupiers have concerns they can telephone either Maggie Dunne or Elaina Leach at Environmental Health on 01595 744800.
ENDS