Moving out? Remember to leave your home in a good condition first

With thousands of people on the Housing Register – often waiting many years for a home – it is infuriating when properties are left dirty, full of rubbish, and needing major repairs and redecoration. This all takes time and means that much-needed council homes have to sit empty while we work to make them safe, clean and ready for new occupants.

If you are planning on moving, make sure that your home meets our Moving Out Standard before you hand back your keys. The Moving Out Standard is a useful checklist for you to follow to ensure that everything inside and outside of your home is left clean, tidy, in good repair and decorative order. You’ll also need to make sure that you take all your possessions with you when you leave.

We will charge you for any work to repair damage not due to normal wear and tear, or to clear any personal items left behind.

So if you don’t want to end up with a hefty bill, make sure you read and follow the moving out checklist online. You can also talk to your Housing Office if you have any queries about what is considered an acceptable state to leave your home in.

Remember if you are planning on moving out of your council home you must let us know by giving us at least four weeks’ notice.  

By leaving your home clean and tidy, you can help us to re-let vacant properties as quickly as possible, reducing the waiting time and enabling more tenants to enjoy settling in to their new home.