Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Housing Association?
A Housing Association is a not-for-profit organisation whose main purpose is to provide high quality, well managed homes for rent to people who need them. Yorkshire Coast Homes uses any surpluses made to plough back into improving services and our homes in the future.
Who is responsible for the management of YCH?
On a day to day basis, Yorkshire Coast Homes is run by an appointed Chief Executive, 3 Directors (Finance, Housing and Property Services) and a team of employees.
It is their job to carry out the day to day running of the organisation and ensure that you get a good service and a well maintained home.
In addition the Association’s Board of Directors oversees the strategic direction of the organisation and monitors its performance in key areas. The Board is made up of 15 voluntary members: 5 Scarborough Borough Council nominees, 5 Independent people and 5 Yorkshire Coast Homes’ tenants.
How does the Waiting List work?
A points system is used to decide an applicant’s priority for re-housing. Points are awarded for factors that establish a housing need, an applicant’s current housing position, time on the waiting list and any medical problems. When a home becomes available, the applicant who meets the letting criteria for that property with the highest points will be offered the tenancy.
How do I apply?
Anyone over the age of 16 can apply for accommodation. You can also apply for a Yorkshire Coast Homes’ property if you live outside the Borough, although due to existing extensive waiting lists, it may be the case that we will be unable to assist you. There are also some circumstances where applications could be excluded, If you do not qualify you will receive a letter explaining the reason and have the right to request a review of the decision.
How do I report a repair?
You can report a repair by clicking here and following the guide or by visiting or phoning your local housing office.
What improvements are planned for my area?
Yorkshire Coast Homes made a promise to all its tenants in its offer document prior to the transfer of homes from Scarborough Borough Council that all homes would be brought up to the standard of decent homes plus. This means that all homes will have Double Glazing, Central heating and Cavity Wall Insulation, Modern Fitted Kitchen and Bathrooms by 2008. Tenants will receive information from Yorkshire Coast Homes well in advance of any improvement work commencing in their area. Tenants are encouraged to get involved with the Customer Initiatives Team so they can have their say on the improvements which will take place in their homes or areas. For more information on this contact a member of the Customer Initiatives Team on 01723 343436.
How do I terminate my tenancy?
Yorkshire Coast Homes require 4 weeks notice of your intention to terminate a tenancy. Rent is payable up to the Monday on which the keys are received by us. All keys must be handed back.
How can I rent a garage?
An application form can be obtained from your local housing office. Most garage sites have waiting lists. Garages are allocated in date order and priority is given to Yorkshire Coast Homes’ tenants. Garages must only be used for the storage of a motor vehicle and should not be used for any other purpose.
Can you explain how my rent is calculated?
Rent is calculated using the Government’s rent restructuring formula. Under this system how much rent you pay depends on the type and size of property you live in along with other factors such as the value of the property.
Can you explain the Mutual Exchange process?
Yorkshire Coast Homes is part of a national mutual exchange programme which enables people renting social housing properties to permanently swap homes with each other. For more details about mutual exchange please contact Yorkshire Coast Homes on 0845 065 5656.
What is YCH’s policy on Anti Social Behaviour?
Yorkshire Coast Homes takes reports of nuisance and anti-social behaviour very seriously. Please click here to read more about our anti-social behaviour policy and service standards.
How do I find out about my Housing Benefit claim?
The Housing Benefit Section at Scarborough Borough Council deals with Housing Benefit claims for customers of Yorkshire Coast Homes. To find out about your claim you can contact the Housing Benefit section on 0800 0830428. Their office is open from 9.30 am until 4.45 pm Monday to Friday. Alternatively you can write to them at Benefits Office, PO BOX 148, Town Hall, St Nicholas Street, Scarborough, YO11 2ZH.
How do I request a replacement rent payment card?
If you lose or damage your rent card you can request a new one by speaking to a housing officer at Yorkshire Coast Homes, either in person at one of our offices or on the telephone. The officer will then take your details and order you a new one.
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0845 065 56 56
Yorkshire Coast Homes
Brook House
4 Gladstone Road
Scarborough
North Yorkshire
YO12 7BH