Consultation - Proposed new Recharge Policy 2025/27

This policy will apply to all current and former residents of Stevenage Borough Council as well as Leaseholders.

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all staff, tenants and leaseholders of Stevenage Borough Council (SBC) understand the recharge process and are equipped with the necessary information to support its fair and consistent implementation.

You can view or download a copy of the draft policy below.

This Policy outlines the principles that guide SBC’s approach to recovering operational costs that fall outside of SBC’s core responsibilities as a landlord. It ensures that these costs are recovered in a manner that is transparent, reasonable, and equitable to all residents.

A recharge, within the context of this Policy, refers to the reasonable costs incurred by SBC when:

• A resident completes unauthorised alterations and fails to carry out necessary reinstatement works,
• Works are completed to an unacceptable standard,
• Properties and gardens are not kept in good repair or wilful damage is caused
• Rubbish or personal items are abandoned on SBC property
• Access to properties is denied and SBC is unable to fulfil legal obligations or housing management functions

This consultation will close on Sunday 8 March 2026.

To complete the survey, please use the button below.