How we prioritise repairs

Emergency repairs are issues that could cause harm if not addressed immediately. Some examples include:

• Gas leaks
• Severe flooding
• Complete loss of heating during cold weather
• Complete loss of water supply
• Electrical hazards
• Structural collapse risks
• Blocked toilet (if it's the only one in the home)
• Blocked drains backing up into the property
• Fire escape issues (e.g., being unable to unlock doors or fire escape windows)

This is not an exhaustive list—we may consider other factors when deciding if a repair is an emergency.

We also look at how certain household vulnerabilities might increase the risk of harm. For example:

• Children under 14 may be more at risk from damp or mold (D&M).
• Adults over 65 may be more affected by extreme cold, falls, or fire hazards.
• Children under 5 are more vulnerable to electrical hazards, falls, or burns from hot surfaces.
• People with respiratory conditions (e.g., COPD) may be more affected by damp, mold, or air quality issues.

Some risks, like asbestos or noise problems, do not target specific groups but may still be serious.

A repair may also be treated as an emergency if a household member has a condition that increases their risk. For example:

• Autism – Difficulty coping with changes may make delays more distressing.
• COPD or other respiratory conditions – Poor air quality or cold temperatures may worsen symptoms.
• Severe depression – Noise issues may have a greater impact on mental wellbeing.
• Dementia – Memory issues may make it harder to follow safety instructions.
• Physical disability – Mobility limitations may make it impossible to check for damage or hazards.
• Severe anxiety – Delays in repairs may cause extreme distress or fear.

By considering these factors, we aim to respond as quickly as possible to repairs that could put residents at risk.