Do-it-yourself improvements

When the work is finished

If you have made your own improvements, you must tell us as soon as the work is finished.

We'll visit within ten days to check that everything is OK. If it isn't, we will ask you to put the work right or to restore the property to how it was before.

Who repairs and maintains your improvements?

It's up to you! You can take on the responsibility yourself, so that you would pay for future breakdown or servicing, or you can make an agreement with Northwards Housing to do it for you - there may be a small rent increase for this service. Contact 03000 123 123 for more information about your choices.

What happens to the improvement if you leave?

If you leave your home, you may be able to take your improvement with you - new cupboards for example. But you must 'make good' after you've removed the improvement, by filling holes and repainting for instance. If you didn't do this we would charge you for putting it right - see repairs you pay for.

If you leave the improvement behind when you go - because it's an essential part of the home for example - you may be eligible for compensation. Apply online here for compensation.

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