Brent has one of the highest levels of overcrowding in London. 45% of our existing tenants are applying for a transfer on grounds of overcrowding.
 

We have taken innovative steps to deal with the issues of overcrowding. We have started to provide solutions for some tenants by converting lofts or adding single-storey extensions to over 50 properties selected from the transfer list for reasons of overcrowding.

What have we done so far

To date, we have spent over £2million on the project and by the end of September 2008, will have completed works to 58 properties consisting of 38 lofts, 19 single storey rear extensions and 1 garage conversion

The average time to complete the works is between eight to twelve weeks from when the contractor goes on site. The works have been arranged to cause the minimum amount of disruption so that the residents can continue to live in their homes while the work is being done.

This project has greatly improved the quality of lives of our tenants and their needs has been addressed, where their children are now in position where they need to have their own bedrooms.

Case study

Ms Meredith of Conley Road, Harlesden had almost given up hope of ever moving to a larger home. Again she was not keen on moving to another area. Her children were settled in their schools and the prospect of moving did not appeal to them. The existing property was originally a two bedroom flat, which meant that her 15 year old son was having to sleep in the front room. A loft room has now been added to the flat. Ms Meredith is over the moon with the extra room.

Ms Meredith said "The children have their own rooms now. My son has now got a bedroom of his own (loft). It was very difficult for him when he was sleeping in the front room. He found it very hard to do his studying as there were always distractions. Our way of life has changed for the better. We now all eat together in the diner/kitchen whereas before we were having to struggle for space for us all to be together.

The works were carried out without any hitches. The contractors were always helpful, tidy and courteous. If I had any issues with the works, I would contact BHP's Resident Liaison Officer, with the confidence that my issues would be sorted out. The site manager for the contractor and their staff kept regular contact with me to make sure works were going well.

I would totally support the council with similar projects in the future and would recommend any other tenant who is in a similar situation as myself, to consider putting their names down for these works."

If you require any further information then please contact the Major Works team on 020 8937 2490 or email: majorworks@bhphousing.co.uk