Repairs and maintenance
The Council is responsible for keeping the structure of the building, the common parts of the block and any external communal areas in a good state of repair. Leaseholders have the right to be consulted about contracts (qualifying long term agreements), and certain works and/or major repairs (qualifying works), for which they will be charged a proportionate amount. For more information see the Leaseholders Guide to Consultation for Major Works and Long Term Contracts.
In addition to any planning or building control requirements, leaseholders are required to seek permission from Dartford Borough Council Housing Services for any building alterations they may wish to make to their property, as the Council retains ownership of the fabric of the building. This includes loft spaces and roofs. Leaseholders are therefore required to gain permission for any proposed alterations which may have an impact on the building. When assessing a property alteration form, the Council’s surveyors must ensure that any proposed works will not affect the fabric of the building or those living within the locality.
Loft extensions will not be approved at any time as these affect the structure of the building and the Council retains ownership of all communal loft spaces.
A property alterations form must be completed for all proposed works, however some examples are listed below:
- Works affecting services to the property such as electricity, gas, drainage, water supply
- Any proposed structural change to the building
- Installation of central heating / replacement of boiler
- Any change to the internal layout
- Window replacement
- Rewiring
- New kitchens and bathrooms
- Changes to the front or back doors including patio doors
- Asbestos removal
- Fitting wooden floors and hard floor coverings
- The installation of a satellite dish
- Garden landscaping
- Installation or changes to fencing
- External lighting
- Creation of a hardstanding
- Installation of CCTV
It is important that leaseholders comply with the terms and conditions set out in their lease agreements as this is the legal document between the leaseholder of the property and the Council as freeholder. Failure to seek permission for any proposed alterations could put you in breach of your lease.