Investment works

We have some information for you about our window and door replacement scheme and how it could affect you. The work may vary slightly from what is stated depending on the type of property you live in and all works will be subject to an individual survey.

Why is the work being done?

Your external doors and windows are in poor condition and need replacing. Modern double glazed windows and composite doors are also more efficient so this work will also help you reduce your heating bills and make your home more secure. Our programme of replacements aims to ensure your windows and external doors are renewed in order to maintain the Decent Homes Standard. You will be notified in writing by us if your area is scheduled for such works in the current financial year. If any of your windows or external doors recently been fitted and are in good condition, they will not be replaced as part of the scheme.

How long will the work take?

The work will normally take two to three consecutive days to complete, depending on the weather.

What should I do before the work starts?

A surveyor will visit you to take measurements prior to works commencing. It is important he has access to all windows.  Once the measurements have been processed we will contact you to arrange a fit date. The customer liaison adviser will visit you at least a week before the work is due to start and explain what you will need to do. You will normally be required to take down your curtains, nets or any blinds.  If you have any fittings, furniture, ornaments or other valuables near your windows they should be moved before the work starts. If you need help moving any items please inform the customer liaison adviser when they visit your home.

What choices will I have?

Your home will normally be fitted with PVC-u (plastic) windows with sealed double-glazed units. We have to comply with the building regulations, which will mean that you will not be able to choose the style of window and may not get PVC-u windows if you are in a conservation area. If your front and back doors are to be replaced, a high security composite door will be fitted and you will have a choice of styles and colours.

What work is involved in fitting new windows and doors? 

The contractor will remove your windows and your front and back doors and frames will also be removed. If any PVC-u windows and doors have recently been fitted they will not be replaced as part of this scheme. The windows and doors will be fitted with secure locks and glass that meet current British Standards and security requirements. Any alarms on your existing windows cannot be fitted to the new ones though the contractor will ensure your alarm is left in a safe condition. The windows and doors will also have high-quality draught proofing and insulation features to reduce the amount of heat you lose from your home. The contractor will take away your old windows and doors and dispose of them correctly.

What disruption will there be?

At times the work may be noisy and dusty and you may not be able to use some of your rooms while the work is underway. Work will not be carried out in all your rooms at the same time so there will always be somewhere for you and your family to stay in comfort. Work will stop during periods of heavy rain or high winds. Access to your home should only be affected while external door frames are being fitted. Occasionally it may be necessary to remove an existing main T.V. / SKY aerial cable or telephone line that obstructs fitting the frames. You will be told if this is a problem, but we will ensure that disruption is minimal and the aerial or telephone line is put back as quickly as possible. If you feel that your personal circumstances, or health may prevent you from coping with this work and would like to discuss what options are available, please contact the customer liaison advisor or the Property Services team.

Will my decoration be damaged?

The work will not usually damage your internal decoration. The contractor may need to fit a plastic trim around the frames to ensure a good finish. The contractor will ensure that existing wall paper can be removed without taking off the plastic trim. Unfortunately we cannot accept responsibility for refitting or altering your blinds or curtains.