How long will the works take?
The works on each floor will take 10-12 weeks and we will continue to update you on progress as the works are carried out and completed.
Why has the phasing of the works changed?
We previously suggested work would be done in vertical stacks of three, starting either side of the stairwell. However, the contractor and SGN have been able to do some more detailed design work, and we now know this is no longer possible.
Will the works affect the lifts?
The lifts will stay working and residents will be able to use it as usual whilst the project is ongoing.
Do you need access to my external shed?
There are no works planned to these sheds, and will remain fully accessible throughout the works.
I live on the ground floor, will the scaffolding mean I can’t use my garden?
No, you should still be able to access and use your garden. Contractors may need to clear any items or rubbish from gardens so scaffolding can be added safely.
How long will the scaffolding be up?
It will be up for the duration of the works on each block. It will be taken down floor by floor as works are completed.
Will white goods and cookers be disconnected and reconnected?
Yes, the council will ensure this is done at the start and end of the works.
Will my gas supply be disrupted?
We aim to minimise all disruption. You will be notified of any planned down time or outage, which will be kept to a minimum where possible, except for emergencies.
Will the media cables and aerials be moved?
Yes, the contractor will use special media and aerial contractors to temporarily move cables and other lighting cables etc. Downtime of media services will be kept to a minimum where possible throughout the works.
Will the kitchens and bathrooms be redecorated?
Yes. You will be given a colour selection palette to choose the new colour and finish to your kitchen and bathrooms.
My WC (water closet) is separate to my bathroom. Will this be replaced as well?
Yes, we plan to undertake a replacement of your WC as part of the works.
Can I have a wet-room rather than a bathroom refitted?
If you have a specific need or disability that requires a wet-room, please raise this with your housing officer so we can assess your needs.
Will the same mobility aids and adaptations be provided in my temporary accommodation?
Where possible, you will be offered accommodation that is suitable for your needs, and this will always be discussed and agreed with you before any move. You can view all FAQs regarding temporary accommodation on our All buildings FAQs page.
Do I need to take down my curtain and blinds? And will I need to buy new ones?
You are welcome take down any curtains or blinds before the contractor starts the work, however the contractor will take these down and return them for you. You are unlikely to need to buy new curtains or blinds as we are not planning to change the windows sizes. We will contact you if there is any change.
Do I need to take down shelving and pictures on the walls?
You are welcome to take down shelving and other wall fixtures before the contractor starts work in your property if you wish, however if you leave them in place and they are near the windows and working areas the contractor will take these down and return them for you.
Do I need to take all my furniture with me?
You will need to pack everything to either move with you to your temporary home, or put in storage for the duration of the works in your home. This includes beds, mattresses, sofas, armchairs, dining table and chairs, TVS and units. You will not be able to return home whilst the works are carried out.
It may be possible to leave some large items of furniture if they are away from the windows and working areas.
What will happy to my carpets or current flooring?
They will be protected by the contractor using floor coverings. If anything is damaged or must be removed, this will be replaced like for like.
Will the contactor unpack for me?
This will be your choice. If you would like help packing and unpacking for moving in and out, the contractor will be able to do this. The Portsmouth Homes Resident Liaison Officer for the project will help organise all aspects of the move.