Your safety is our priority. Here’s how we keep your home secure and well-maintained.

Fire Safety

• All homes have mains or battery-operated smoke alarms.
• We install and maintain fire detection and warning systems where needed.
• Regular fire risk assessments are carried out in communal areas, at least every 2 years.
• Emergency lighting, fire-fighting equipment, and fire doors are inspected and maintained.
• Lightning protection systems are tested annually.

Electrical Safety

• We check electrical wiring in your home at least every 5 years.
• In communal areas and sheltered housing, we carry out safety inspections every 5 years.
• Electrical installations in empty properties are tested before new tenants move in.
• Portable electrical appliances in communal areas are tested annually, with safety labels attached.

Lifts

• We ensure all lifts, stairlifts, and vertical lifts are serviced regularly.
• Lifts are inspected every 6 months by an approved contractor and once a year by an independent inspector.

Water Safety

• We manage water systems in communal living schemes to prevent health risks.
• We assess risks such as scalding in higher-risk properties.
• Our team ensures water quality meets safety standards.

If you spot damp or mould in your home, it’s important to understand why it happens and what you can do to prevent it.

Damp is caused when moisture builds up and doesn’t dry out properly. Everyday activities like cooking, showering, and drying clothes indoors add moisture to the air. It can also come from outside – through leaks, blocked gutters, or structural issues. When this moisture stays trapped inside, it can lead to damp and mould.

There are simple steps you can take to reduce the risk and keep your home fresh and dry.

Preventing Damp and Mould

A few small changes can make a big difference in preventing damp and mould:

Ventilate your home – Open windows slightly, use extractor fans, and keep internal doors closed when cooking or showering to stop moisture from spreading. Moving furniture a little away from walls also helps air circulate.

Reduce moisture indoors – Dry clothes outside when possible or on a drying rack near an open window rather than on a radiator. Put lids on pans when cooking, and if you’re running a bath, add a few inches of cold water first before the hot – this can cut condensation by up to 90%.

Wipe away condensation – Regularly check windows, sills, and kitchen/bathroom surfaces. A quick wipe with a dry cloth can stop mould before it starts.

Don’t worry if you find some mould – Many homes experience small amounts of mould, and it’s only a problem if it spreads or keeps coming back.

Can I Remove Mould Myself?

If you spot small patches of mould, like on windowsills or bathroom sealant, you can remove it yourself with a mould remover kit. Just follow the instructions carefully to make sure it’s done safely and effectively.

What If the Problem Persists?

If mould keeps coming back or spreads, let us know as soon as possible. Sometimes, persistent damp or mould is caused by underlying issues, like leaks or repairs that need fixing. The sooner we know about it, the sooner we can help.

If you’re struggling with persistent damp or mould, get in touch – we’re here to help.

Many older homes contain asbestos, which is safe if left undisturbed. If damaged, it can be a risk. Do not attempt to remove or repair asbestos yourself—contact us immediately for advice.

For any safety concerns or further information, get in touch with the Asset Management Team via phone (0121 748 8101), email (contactus@pioneergroup.org.uk), or visit our High Street office.

Planned and Cyclical Maintenance

Planned maintenance includes major works like fire door upgrades and fire alarm replacements.

Cyclical maintenance covers regular servicing, such as heating systems, lifts, fire alarms, and emergency lighting.

External redecorations happen every 6 years, with internal communal areas refreshed as needed.

Gas Servicing

• We service all heating appliances annually and provide a certificate within 28 days.
• You’ll receive a letter around 56 days before your service is due.
• Gas appliances must be inspected every 12 months—we’ll send you an appointment with a time slot.