DE launches new housing information scheme

The launch of the new scheme follows a successful trial which took place at the end of last year. Many Service families currently move to a new duty station armed only with the address of the home allocated to them and the knowledge that it has a certain number of bedrooms.

The improved information will be sent with letters offering accommodation and include details such as a photograph of the property (or type of property) if one is available, the type of heating and whether there is a separate fire, the type of cooker, whether or not the property has a shower and whether there is space and plumbing for items such as washing machines, tumble driers and dishwashers.

The scheme has been launched using data currently held on the 49,000 units of Service Family Accommodation maintained by DE, with the intention to improve the information provided as the scheme evolves.

Steve Rix, Assistant Head Defence Estates Operations Housing said:

"The enhanced property details means that occupants will be given greater information regarding their property than they have previously had. Often the first time an occupant would see their property was on move-in, but with the introduction of these details they will be provided with an early view of their house.

"The provision of the property details is a step in the right direction and we will continue to engage with families and their representatives to ensure that the details evolve to meet their requirements."

Garry Light, Defence Estates Operations Housing Information Services and Information Management Manager, added:

"The provision of property details to our customers has been a long standing aspiration and I am delighted that we have been able to deliver this initial capability. Additionally, the re-use of existing information in the production of the details represents good value for money."

Providing Service personnel and their families with the living accommodation they deserve is a top priority for the Department. By 2020 we aim to have upgraded all service family accommodation, and 70% of single living accommodation, to the top standard for condition.

In August 2009 the department published the Defence Accommodation Management Strategy, which set out plans for improving housing for both Service Families Accommodation and Single Living Accommodation over the next decade. We are also improving our management information both on the condition of our accommodation stock and on the Armed Forces future accommodation requirements so we can meet future demands as efficiently as possible. As well as improving accommodation and rationalising our Estate, we are also providing help to personnel who want to buy their own homes.

What families can expect to see

The improved information will be sent with letters offering accommodation and will include the following details:

• a photograph of the property or type of property if one is available
• the full address including postcode
• the number of bedrooms
• type of heating and whether there is a separate fire
• type of cooker
• if the property has a shower
• whether there is space and plumbing for items such as washing machines, tumble driers and dishwashers.

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