Northumberland County Council has called on tenants to cooperate with safety inspections as part of a comprehensive review of its rental properties following a critical report from the housing regulator. The council is undertaking an extensive survey of all homes it manages after the report revealed that only about 3% of its housing stock had up-to-date condition information.

The council aims to complete surveys for every property by March 2027 to address significant gaps in its records and ensure tenant safety. However, progress has been hindered by some residents refusing access to their homes for inspections. Although these cases represent a small fraction of the total properties, the council indicated it may resort to alternative measures, including possible legal action, to gain entry.

During a meeting of the council’s housing scrutiny committee, Deputy Leader Coun Richard Wearmouth emphasized the importance of these checks. He described them as vital for protecting tenants and their neighbours, while also highlighting the financial strain caused by delays. "Any processes that we have to go through is draining money out of the housing revenue account which is the money we keep to improve the condition of the stock – so please help us," Wearmouth said.

The council stressed that completing the safety checks is essential not only for tenant welfare but also to demonstrate compliance with regulatory standards. It urged residents to support the effort to bring all properties up to the required safety and maintenance levels.