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Thanet District Council has reappointed Mears Group as its repairs and maintenance contractor for the next ten years. The contract sees the continuation of a 27-year partnership.
The new contract starts on Tuesday 1 April 2025. It will cover all responsive repairs, together with grant funded energy efficiency improvements for Thanet’s 3,450 council-owned properties.
The contract includes repairing empty properties, ensuring these are ready to let to new tenants as quickly as possible. It also includes planned works, such as repairs and improvements to communal areas. There is an option to extend the contract for a further five years.
Mears’ dedicated net zero team will support the council to submit applications to the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) and deliver these works if successful. The Group will then support the council to reach its target to achieve Net Zero on properties that it owns by 2030.
The council’s Tenant and Leaseholder Services Resident Group played a crucial role in shaping the contract. The group contributed to the quality assessment questions used to evaluate bidders, and helped review and score responses.
Subcontractors will align with Mears’ direct workforce, which means standardised uniforms, identification and working practices. All staff will take part in regular customer service training.
As part of the contract, Mears has committed to investing at least £143,000 a year in community projects. Residents will help to decide which projects will be supported.
The contract will also support local employment. Mears will recruit up to four local people and provide apprenticeships and work placements. Mears staff will take part in up to 68 volunteering days each year.
Karen Beckley, Managing Director at Mears Group, said: “Our long-standing relationship with Thanet District Council has enabled us to develop a deeper understanding of how we can work together with residents to achieve the best results for everyone.
“We’re looking forward to beginning the contract on Tuesday 1 April and providing a quality repairs and maintenance service to our customers and council residents, which delivers both excellence and value for money.”
Bob Porter, Director of Place at Thanet District Council, said: “Our tenants deserve high quality homes. Ensuring our tenants have safe, warm, and well-maintained homes is a priority for the council.
“This new contract will provide reliable repairs, energy efficient upgrades, and investment in our communities – all while supporting local jobs and apprenticeships.”
