Enfield Council's Cabinet has approved a new Tenancy Strategy and Policy for 2026-2031, aiming to provide greater security and fairness for council home tenants. The policy, which will be formally reviewed every three years, aligns with the Regulator of Social Housing's Consumer Standards and the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023.
The new policy reaffirms lifetime tenancies as the preferred approach, offering long-term stability for residents. However, it introduces a provision for 10-year fixed-term tenancies for new lets of three-bedroom homes. This measure aims to ensure that larger properties are allocated to families who need them most, addressing under-occupation and high demand for family-sized homes. The Council will be delegated the scope to make exceptions where the needs of the family are enduring.
Exceptions to the fixed-term tenancy rule will be considered for households with enduring needs. These may include households with a child or adult with lifelong care or support needs, significant disability or health-related housing requirements, safeguarding concerns, or where a young child's need for stability is a key consideration. Decisions on exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis by the Housing Director (Residents), taking account of evidence of need, property suitability, and the Council's duty to make best use of its housing stock. The process aims to be transparent and consistent.
Fixed-term tenancies may also be favoured for 'significantly adapted properties'. Beyond these, no other specific circumstances for future fixed-term tenancies are detailed in the policy.
For households living in specially adapted properties or larger homes on fixed-term tenancies, support will be provided to downsize, freeing up the home for another household. An assessment will be carried out to identify suitable housing options, and the property will be made available for another household. If a tenancy is not renewed, the Council will provide appropriate advice and support to the tenant regarding their housing options, either directly or through referral to relevant services.
The strategy also clarifies procedures for tenancy reviews, succession rights, and support for victims of domestic abuse. It reinforces the Council's commitment to preventing homelessness and supporting tenants to sustain their tenancies.
Consultation with residents indicated strong support for lifetime tenancies, with 87% agreeing they are the preferred approach. There was also significant support for the use of fixed-term tenancies in defined circumstances, with 79% agreeing to this measure. Residents also supported extending fixed-term tenancies to three-bedroom homes, with 79% agreeing to this provision.
The new policy aligns with the Regulator of Social Housing's Consumer Standards and the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023, emphasizing secure tenancies, transparent decision-making, and effective use of housing stock. The full details of the policy can be found in the Public reports pack.
