Housing stock condition surveys
Stock condition surveys
As the social housing landlord for around 5,000 homes, Stroud District Council (SDC) has a legal responsibility to make sure our properties are safe, well maintained, and meet the Decent Homes Standard. To do this effectively, we need a strong understanding of the condition of each of our homes.
Stock condition surveys play a vital role in helping us achieve this. They provide a detailed picture of the condition of our properties and help us plan future maintenance and improvement works.
Housing health and safety rating system (HHSRS)
HHSRS is a risk-based assessment tool introduced under the Housing Act 2004. It identifies hazards in residential properties that could affect the health and safety of occupants.
Stock condition surveys (SCS) and the housing health and safety rating system (HHSRS) are essential tools used by housing providers to assess the condition, safety, and performance of residential properties. While SCS focuses on the physical condition and lifecycle of building components, HHSRS assesses potential risks to occupants’ health and safety.
Key features include:
- 29 categories of hazards, including:
- Damp and mould
- Excess cold
- Fire risk
- Falls (on stairs, level surfaces, etc.)
- Hazards are assessed based on:
- Likelihood of occurrence
- Severity of potential harm
What is a stock condition survey?
A stock condition survey is carried out every five years and involves checking the major internal and external elements of your home to make sure it is safe and in good condition. This includes items such as:
- Roofs
- Windows and doors
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Other key building components
Why we carry out stock condition surveys
The information gathered from these surveys helps us to:
- Plan future investment by understanding what work is needed and when
- Maintain accurate, up to date information about the condition of the major components of your home
Will work be carried out straight away?
Having a stock condition survey does not mean that work will take place immediately. If any improvement or maintenance work is planned for your home, you will be contacted in writing at the start of the relevant financial year with details of what to expect.
What happens during a stock condition survey?
During a stock condition survey, a qualified surveyor will visit your home to carry out a visual inspection of key internal and external elements. The survey usually takes around 30–60 minutes, depending on the size of your property.
The surveyor will:
- Inspect major components such as the roof, windows, doors, kitchen, bathroom, walls, and heating systems
- Check the general condition of these items and record their age and remaining lifespan
- Take photographs and notes for our records
- Identify any potential health and safety issues
The survey is non invasive, meaning no work will be carried out on the day, and there should be minimal disruption to your home. You may be asked for access to all rooms, including the kitchen, bathroom, cupboards, loft (if accessible), and any external areas.
The surveyor will not be able to confirm on the day whether or when any work will be carried out. The information collected is used to help us plan future maintenance and investment across our housing stock.
Please note that it is not the surveyor’s role to identify or raise day to day repairs. If you have any repairs that need attention, these should be reported directly to the Property Care Team by calling 01453 766321 or emailing property.care@stroud.gov.uk