We know from your feedback and our Tenant Satisfaction Measures results that the condition of your neighbourhood is important to you.
You want communal areas to be clean and well maintained, you want us to deal with issues when they’re reported, and you want clearer information about the services you receive.
Earlier this year, we said we’d do more to keep you informed about the estate services you receive and what you should expect from us and our contractors. So, as we keep moving through the autumn months, here’s how you can expect some services to change and some tips on how you can support us in keeping your neighbourhood clean, safe, and well-maintained.
Please keep in mind that the exact services and frequency of visits will vary depending on your estate, building and the services that we provide in your area.
Grounds maintenance
As the weather gets colder, grass will grow a lot slower. This means you may start to see fewer grass cuts, but it doesn’t mean that your grounds maintenance service has stopped.
Our contractors will use the time they save from the decreased grass cuts on seasonal work, which can include:
- Clearing leaves from communal areas and paths
- Hedge and shrub maintenance
- Weed control and looking after planted areas
- Clearing seasonal debris and preparing grounds for the colder months.
Wet weather can sometimes affect what tasks can safely be carried out. Using machinery on very wet ground can damage lawns and create muddy areas, so some work may need to be delayed to a later date, when the weather is dryer.
Leaves and slippery surfaces
We know that fallen leaves can quickly make paths and entrances look untidy, and they can also become slippery when wet.
During autumn, our contractors will clear leaves as part of their scheduled visits, with particular attention given to main entrances, steps, ramps, main walkways, and other areas where there may be a higher risk of slipping.
When faced with heavy leaf fall or strong winds, leaves may build up again soon after an area has been cleared. If you notice a significant build-up or something you believe is unsafe, please report it to us.
Please do not sweep leaves into drains, parking areas, or bin stores.
Communal cleaning
Communal cleaning will continue in line with the agreed arrangements for your building or estate.
At this time of year, rain, mud, and any wind-blown debris can mean entrance areas and floors can become obstructed or slippery again quite quickly, even after they have been cleaned.
If you think a cleaning visit has been missed or the standard is not right, please tell us. Provide us with the block, floor, and exact location to help us check what has happened and take action quickly where needed.
Please also keep corridors, stairs, and other communal areas clear of personal belongings so cleaning teams can complete their work properly and communal routes remain safe.
Urgent hazards such as broken glass, spillages, or bodily fluids should be reported as soon as possible.
Pest activity
As the weather becomes colder, rats, mice, and other pests are more likely to look for food and somewhere warm to shelter. One of the best ways we can reduce pest activity is by making sure rubbish is managed properly.
Please put waste fully inside the bins provided; keep bin store doors closed where possible; and avoid leaving food, bird feed, or rubbish on communal land.
If you notice repeated pest sightings, droppings, nesting, or signs of gnawing, please report it so we can investigate.
Trees and storm-related issues
Autumn can bring stronger winds and storms. We carry out tree inspections and planned work based on survey findings and safety priorities.
If you see a fallen branch; a damaged tree; or something blocking an entrance, footpath, or access route, please let us know. Please keep away from damaged trees or hanging branches while they’re being assessed. Reports will be prioritised according to the level of risk.
Playgrounds and play areas
Where PA Housing is responsible for a playground or play area, our usual inspections and safety checks will continue.
Wet leaves, mud, and standing water can make surfaces more slippery during autumn. Please take extra care and do not use equipment that appears broken, loose, or unsafe.
Please report damaged equipment, broken glass, sharp objects, or other significant safety concerns as soon as possible.
Communal lighting
As the evenings become darker, some communal lighting timers may need to be adjusted.
Our Assets Team manages these changes. If communal lights are not coming on when expected, staying on all day, or not working at all, please report this to us.
Tell us when something isn't right
Your feedback helps us to understand whether the services being delivered in your neighbourhood are meeting the standard we expect.
When reporting an estate services issue, please give us:
- Your estate or block and the exact location
- A clear description of what has happened
- The date you noticed the problem or the service was missed
- Whether there is an immediate safety concern
- Photographs, where it is safe and appropriate to take them.
You can report an issue through My PA or email [email protected]
Where there is an immediate danger to life or a risk of serious injury, please contact the emergency services first.
You said; we're listening
Through your feedback and our resident satisfaction surveys, you’ve told us that you want us to keep communal areas clean and well maintained, communicate more clearly about the services you receive, and respond when something isn't right.
We’re using this feedback alongside our estate inspections and checks on contractor performance to understand where services are working well, and where improvements are needed.
We will continue to share seasonal updates, so you know what to expect from estate services throughout the year.
Thank you for helping to look after your neighbourhood
Keeping neighbourhoods clean, safe, and welcoming works best when residents, PA Housing, and our contractors all play their part.
Reporting problems early, disposing of rubbish correctly, and keeping communal areas clear can help us deal with issues sooner, reduce unnecessary costs, and make sure the money spent on estate services is used where it’s needed most.
