External painting and repairs frequently asked questions

Why is the Trust carrying out painting works at my block?
The Trust is obligated to carry out the works under the terms of your lease.

I have carried out the painting & repair work to my property myself; can I opt out of the external painting & repair programme?
The Trust is obliged to carry out this work under the terms of your lease agreement. If you need further clarification please seek legal advice.

What if I object to the proposed works?
During the Leasehold consultation process you are given the opportunity to make written observations and the Trust will respond to any observations individually.
If no work is carried out that relates to your particular property, you will still be responsible for a proportion of the overall costs of the works carried out to the block.

Why have two contractors been awarded the contract?
The Wrekin Housing Trust has appointed two contractors, KRM Contractors Ltd and The Bell Group. The reason we have appointed two contractors is to ensure we obtain value for money and quality services. It enables us to benchmark the contractor's performance and provide an efficient rolling programme. In the event of contractors becoming insolvent or under performing, it will enable the works to continue without delays.

Repair & Painting works have recently been carried to the block, why am I already receiving costs to have the work done again?
We are carrying out a Qualifying Long-Term agreement for the External Painting and Repairs; this agreement is for over 6 years. As part of the consultation we are legally required to include estimated costs for works over the 6 years, even though your work may have been carried out more recently.

When will I be notified that my block is in the programme?
We will send out a notification letter prior to carrying out any works to your block, along with the estimated cost. This is usually at the beginning of the relevant financial year in April.

Can leaseholders have a copy of the survey carried out by the contractor?
Yes we will provide a breakdown of the work including a full estimate prior to commencement of the works.

Will I have the opportunity to meet a representative from the Trust or the contractor to discuss any concerns prior to works commencing?
Yes, when you have received the breakdown of works in the notification letter, an onsite meeting can be arranged by calling the Cyclical Works team in Asset Management on 01952 217417.

I've previously paid to have UPVC windows; will I be expected to pay a proportion of the repair and painting to other timber windows within the block?
You will not be expected to contribute to other windows fitted to adjacent flats, however you will be expected to pay a proportion of the costs of any works undertaken to the communal areas. 

There are garages under my property will I have to pay towards them?
If we are going to paint garages that form part of the structure of the block we should charge in accordance with the terms of the Lease.

How did you arrive at the estimated costs for my property?
If we have recently carried out external painting and repair works at your property the estimated have been based on historic costs. Other properties we have carried out surveys of the block.

Why is my external door not being painted?
The external door is not covered by all leases. However if you would like your door painting please contact us.