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Consultation has concluded
Why have we created a Permissions Policy?
Permissions were previously included in the Estate Management Policy, which is now out of date and needs updating.
Since the Estate Management Policy was last reviewed, there have been changes in law and in how housing services are delivered. Feedback has identified that the size and complexity of the existing policy reduced its clarity and ease of use.
To improve understanding, we have separated the Estate Management Policy and created two new standalone policies:
Permissions Policy
Pet Policy for Council Tenants
What is the purpose of the Permissions Policy?
The Permissions Policy explains how we manage tenant requests to alter, improve or change the use of their home or surrounding area. It reflects changes in legislation, operational practice, good practice and regulatory requirements.
The policy sets out clearer standards, defined roles and responsibilities, and support more consistent, high quality services.
Why have we created a Permissions Policy?
Permissions were previously included in the Estate Management Policy, which is now out of date and needs updating.
Since the Estate Management Policy was last reviewed, there have been changes in law and in how housing services are delivered. Feedback has identified that the size and complexity of the existing policy reduced its clarity and ease of use.
To improve understanding, we have separated the Estate Management Policy and created two new standalone policies:
Permissions Policy
Pet Policy for Council Tenants
What is the purpose of the Permissions Policy?
The Permissions Policy explains how we manage tenant requests to alter, improve or change the use of their home or surrounding area. It reflects changes in legislation, operational practice, good practice and regulatory requirements.
The policy sets out clearer standards, defined roles and responsibilities, and support more consistent, high quality services.
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What we asked
We asked tenants to review the draft policy, which explains when tenants need permission before making changes to their home.
What you said
37 responses were received.
78% supported the policy.
90% found it easy to read and understand.
People told us they wanted:
More flexibility so requests can be considered on their individual circumstances.
Clearer information about reasonable adjustments and Equality Act duties.
More explanation about flooring permissions.
More information about cat flaps, CCTV and video doorbells.
What we did
We reviewed the feedback and made several changes.
We:
Clarified that some requests would not normally be approved, rather than automatically refused.
Added information about how disability-related needs and reasonable adjustments will be considered.
Made the flooring section clearer.
Clarified that cat flap requests would not normally be approved but can still be considered on an individual basis in certain circumstances.
The new policy:
Explains when permission is needed and how applications will be assessed.
Includes clear decision timescales.
Explains review and appeal rights.
Provides a more transparent and consistent approach to decision making.
Helps protect Council housing while supporting tenants who want to improve or adapt their home.
Next steps
The Permissions Policy was approved by elected members at the meeting of the Housing and Community Safety Committee on 10 September 2026. You can read the report presented to Committee here, which contains all of the feedback and responses to comments.
The policy will start on 1 October 2026.
We'll:
Update our procedures
Provide staff training and guidance
Update application forms and supporting information
Update tenant information
Share information through our website and Tenants' Voice newsletter
We asked tenants to review the draft policy, which explains when tenants need permission before making changes to their home.
What you said
37 responses were received.
78% supported the policy.
90% found it easy to read and understand.
People told us they wanted:
More flexibility so requests can be considered on their individual circumstances.
Clearer information about reasonable adjustments and Equality Act duties.
More explanation about flooring permissions.
More information about cat flaps, CCTV and video doorbells.
What we did
We reviewed the feedback and made several changes.
We:
Clarified that some requests would not normally be approved, rather than automatically refused.
Added information about how disability-related needs and reasonable adjustments will be considered.
Made the flooring section clearer.
Clarified that cat flap requests would not normally be approved but can still be considered on an individual basis in certain circumstances.
The new policy:
Explains when permission is needed and how applications will be assessed.
Includes clear decision timescales.
Explains review and appeal rights.
Provides a more transparent and consistent approach to decision making.
Helps protect Council housing while supporting tenants who want to improve or adapt their home.
Next steps
The Permissions Policy was approved by elected members at the meeting of the Housing and Community Safety Committee on 10 September 2026. You can read the report presented to Committee here, which contains all of the feedback and responses to comments.
The policy will start on 1 October 2026.
We'll:
Update our procedures
Provide staff training and guidance
Update application forms and supporting information
Update tenant information
Share information through our website and Tenants' Voice newsletter
