Agenda item

In accordance with Contract Standing Order 2.01.c, the Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning (Deputy Leader) approved a £1,030,581.00 contract award to Tenderer A for Phase 2 of the Extensive Voids Programme. Five uninhabitable properties with major structural defects had been identified for refurbishment, including loft conversions in two homes to increase bedroom capacity. The works aimed to return the properties to use, expand housing options for larger families, and ease overcrowding—ultimately boosting the Council’s housing supply.

It was RESOLVED the Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning (Deputy Leader):

3.1 Pursuant to Contract Standing Order (CSO) 2.01.c approved the award of contract to Tenderer A as set out in Appendix A - Exempt Report. The contract sum will have a total value of £1,030,581.00.

3.2 In consultation with the Director of Finance, approved the expenditure of sums set out in Appendix A – Exempt Report. The proposed works for the Phase 2 Extensive Voids Programme, has a total estimated value of £1,030,581.00 for five currently unoccupied properties. The works will be funded from the approved Major Works Capital Programme, as they relate to the structural refurbishment and reinstatement of housing assets. The costs are expected to be contained within the existing Major Works budget and Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS). Provided there is no cost escalation beyond the estimated cost, there is no or minimal financial pressure on the current year’s capital budget. A portion of spend will slip into the following financial year. £530,581.00 has been allocated to be spent in 26/27 to complete the works and manage end-of-year defects.

3.3 In line with Contract Standing Orders (CSO 16.04), approved issuance of a letter of intent for the value of £103,058.00. The Letter of Intent will allow the contractor to commence the project by placing orders with their supply chain before agreeing a formal contract.

Reasons for decision

The decision to award this contract is based on several critical factors:

4.1 Structural and Safety Concerns The Council has identified several long-term void properties that have remained vacant due to significant structural and other works which have contributed to the failure of these properties to meet current housing standards. These unoccupied homes represent a significant loss in potential housing supply and rental income at a time of acute need, and their continued absence from the active housing stock places additional strain on temporary accommodation. To address these issues, immediate action is required to bring these properties back into use. Refurbishing these properties not only reduces the number of voids but will also help to alleviate demand pressures, providing much-needed housing for residents awaiting permanent housing. The works are not only necessary to bring these properties back into use but also represent a proactive investment in the Council’s housing stock. These properties will also address overcrowding by increasing the number of bedrooms in two of the properties, making the homes suitable for larger families on the housing waiting list.

4.2 Need for Fire Safety Upgrades Several of these properties also require essential fire safety upgrades, including new fire doors, smoke detection systems, compartmentation, and other improvements. These works are necessary to ensure compliance with current fire safety regulations.

4.3 Energy Efficiency Improvements The project supports the Council’s commitment to becoming a net-zero carbon borough by 2041. Energy efficiency improvements—such as insulation, window and door replacements, and heating system upgrades—will reduce carbon emissions, lower energy bills for tenants, and contribute to the Council’s Climate Change Action Plan and Affordable Energy Strategy. Therefore, where possible, energy efficiency works will also be included in the PH 2 Extensive Voids Programme.

4.4 Minimising Future Costs through targeted refurbishment under this programme, the Council will proactively safeguard its housing stock from further deterioration. Delaying action risks compounding repair needs, which will escalate costs over time and erode asset value. Moreover, early intervention offers tangible cost savings. Maintaining vacant units incurs ongoing expenses, including security, inspections, and utilities. When paired with rising demand for temporary accommodation, the financial burden grows considerably. Bringing long-term voids back into use not only improves housing supply— it reduces reactive spending and ensures public funds deliver lasting impact.

4.5 Resident Engagement and Communication Although the properties are currently unoccupied, the Council has engaged with neighbouring residents and stakeholders through written communications and supported by dedicated Resident Liaison Officers. 4.5 Competitive Tender Process The Council conducted a robust and competitive procurement exercise via Lot 2.2 of the London Construction Programme (LCP) Framework. Tenders were published on 6 May 2025, resulting in the receipt of five compliant bids by the closing date of 5 June 2025. Following a comprehensive evaluation process, the appointed contractor demonstrated a strong capability to deliver the refurbishment works to a high standard, on budget, and in accordance with the Council’s priorities around social value and environmental sustainability. The tender results are shown in the table in Section 6.6 of the report, with further detail in Appendix A – Exempt Report.

4.6 Alignment with Strategic Goals This project aligns with the Council’s wider strategic objectives, including the Housing Delivery Programme, the Housing Asset Management Strategy, and the Council Housing Energy Action Plan (HEAP). It supports the Council’s ambition to provide high[1]quality, sustainable housing and to make best use of its existing stock

Alternative options considered.

5.1 Do Nothing Haringey Council has a duty to preserve both the internal and external integrity of its properties. Choosing not to proceed with refurbishment works would expose the Council to criticism for failing to bring its assets back into use, particularly considering growing demand for social housing. Inaction also carries significant financial consequences. It would result in ongoing loss of rental income and drive-up costs associated with securing, inspecting, and maintaining empty properties. Moreover, the reliance on temporary accommodation to meet housing need would continue to place pressure on limited resources.

Timely investment in these homes not only fulfils the Council’s legal obligations—it also ensures cost-effectiveness and reinforces its commitment to delivering sustainable housing solutions.