Please see below the latest update on changes to HTS service provision.
HTS and Harlow Council have agreed to continue to temporarily reduce non-emergency and non-urgent repairs and works to homes as cases of Coronavirus in Harlow increase, Essex is under Tier 4 restrictions and the local schools remain closed. This will be reviewed in line with any further government announcements on Tier 4 restrictions continuing or changing.
The following service changes will protect the welfare and wellbeing of employees, council tenants, residents and visitors to Harlow and help minimise contact and the transmission of the virus.
Responsive Repairs
HTS are currently only undertaking emergency and urgent repairs.
Capital works
All capital works programmes suspended apart from emergency and health and safety works.
Aids and Adaptations
All internal works are suspended unless health and safety, aligned to hospital discharge.
Garages
On hold, emergency/health and safety works only.
Gas and electricity compliance
All gas and electrical inspections are scheduled aligned to their renewal dates. Priority will be given to those that are due to expire only. Priority will move into testing and health and safety works in communal areas where required.
Sumners Farm Close
Work to build new units at Sumners Farm Close will be suspended
Environmental Services
Services including litter picking, street cleaning, building cleaning and waste management will continue to be provided and schedules for building cleaning have been realigned to ensure the full programme of works can be delivered. Grounds maintenance service with the exception of Health and Safety has been suspended
Voids Repairs Service
Voids works are being reviewed with Team Leaders at HTS and it is anticipated that some works may continue in line with Health and Safety guidance and associated risk assessments
New void properties will be processed in line with Health and Safety guidance and Risk Assessments
Keeping staff and residents safe
All staff will where possible will continue to work from home under the extended Tier 4 government guidance restrictions. HTS will also be encouraging residents to wear PPE when operatives attend their property to undertake repairs.
HTS and Harlow Council employees continue to review risk assessments alongside any updated government guidance. All employees are required to continue to follow the latest government guidelines on hand washing, wearing face coverings and social distancing.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their continued patience and understanding whilst we continue to work our way through the Covid-19 pandemic in the safest possible way.
On behalf of HTS Group Board
John Phillips
Managing Director