Service update – from the 26th April

The Challenge for us – to catch up with almost a year of work;

Our Promise to you – we’ll keep you updated on our services in the newsletter, on our website and Facebook page;

What we ask from you – your patience and tolerance in the coming months. Our Teams will be prioritising the backlog first.

• Although our offices remain closed, you can still contact us during normal office hours. Our Team is still calling many Tenants to make sure that they are ok. Please let us know if you would benefit from a call. Our ASB Team is also on hand to help you with any issues.

• We’re re-introducing our non-emergency repairs service from 26th April. We have a backlog of repairs and we’re currently prioritising these according to level of urgency, this may mean that you need to wait a bit longer than normal. Please be patient and be assured that we will be in touch as soon as possible. You can book a non-emergency repair using Report-a-Repair on our website. IF YOUR REPAIR IS AN EMERGENCY, PLEASE CALL 01750 724444 or 08000 193 222.
• While we’re in your home, please remain in another room and leave doors and windows open to ventilate the area. We will use a range of personal protective equipment (PPE) and hygiene measures suitable for the task and for your circumstances. Our Team members will adhere to the 2 metre social distancing rule, please ensure that you also do this to keep everyone safe.
• Our gas contractor, PH Jones, continue to carry out essential gas safety checks as required. IF YOU SMELL GAS OR SUSPECT A GAS LEAK, PLEASE CALL 0800 111 999 IMMEDIATELY. Our electrical contractor, Easy Heat, and our in-house Team continue to carry out essential electrical safety checks and associated works as required.
• From 26th April, we will be resuming our planned upgrades programme. This includes the replacement of heating systems, kitchens, bathrooms, windows and doors. Our immediate focus is on the areas and homes which have experienced delays from last year. These are mainly in Newtown St Boswells, Earlston and Galashiels North. We will be in touch with you as soon as we can and we appreciate your patience and understanding.
• Our grounds maintenance service is operating as normal and works will be undertaken in accordance with Covid guidelines. Our contractor, idverde, has commenced the Spring / Summer grass cutting schedule.
• If you are experiencing a drop in income, need help with accessing benefits including Universal Credit, or need any rent or budgeting advice, our Financial Inclusion Team is here to help.
• We continue to advertise and allocate homes as long as restrictions permit. Viewings and sign-up processes remain adjusted to ensure we minimise risk to you and our Team.