1  Overview

1.1 Purpose

1.1.1 This chapter sets out the criteria and procedures which must be followed when undertaking Temporary Social Housing. 

1.2 Context 

1.2.1 The Temporary Social Housing (TSH) framework forms part of the housing for rent framework and this section sets out the policies and procedures to be followed, and is based on the standard rental procedures. It should be read within the context of the General section of this Guide. 

1.3 Main Features of the Scheme 

1.3.1 SHG is paid to a RSL to cover the capital costs of bringing properties into temporary social housing use i.e. :

• >2 years, but
• <30 years.

1.3.2   The TSH programme is designed to add to the RSL’s stock of units of self contained or shared temporary property by bringing into use properties that would otherwise remain empty and unavailable for social housing. Examples are properties over shops in town centres or those awaiting redevelopment or sale.

1.3.3  There are two types of TSH schemes:

• unimproved properties - properties which require improvement/repair in order to meet the Agency’s relevant specified TSH standards as set out in the Agency’s Design & Quality Standards publication;
• improved properties - dwellings recently refurbished or newly built, completed to a standard at least equivalent to the relevant specified TSH standards.  Specifically: 

1. All properties that were built or refurbished within the two years prior to the signing of the RSL’s lease and 
2. other properties that are in such good condition that no works are required for them to meet the TSH standards.