Tipton House FAQs
Why have I received a letter?
We are writing to let you know about a proposal that could affect residents living in Tipton House, Edgbaston House, Barkis House and Nickleby House.
We understand this news may be worrying, and we want to be open and honest about what is being proposed and why.
A report about the proposal will be published on the Portsmouth City Council website on 28 July 2026 and will be considered by the Cabinet Member for Housing and Tackling Homelessness on 5 August 2026.
What is being proposed?
The report recommends that residents living in Tipton House, Edgbaston House, Barkis House and Nickleby House are permanently rehoused into other homes through a planned and phased programme.
If approved, this would take place gradually over a four-year period up to 2030.
No one would be expected to move immediately, and nothing would change straight away.
Why is Portsmouth Homes making this recommendation?
The recommendation relates to the way these buildings were originally constructed.
Specialist structural assessments have been carried out on all four buildings. While these assessments found no immediate concerns with residents continuing to live in their homes, they also found that the buildings do not meet the standards we would expect for homes built today.
After carefully considering the findings, Portsmouth Homes believes that a planned rehousing programme is the most appropriate long-term option for residents.
Is my home safe?
Yes.
The clear advice from the specialist assessments is that residents can continue living safely in their homes while any rehousing programme is planned and delivered.
If my home is safe, why is rehousing being considered?
As a social housing landlord, Portsmouth Homes has a responsibility to think about residents’ long-term safety.
Although there are no immediate structural concerns, the buildings do not meet the level of structural robustness expected today. The recommendation is therefore being made as a precautionary measure and reflects our duty to plan for the future.
Why can’t the buildings simply be repaired?
Portsmouth Homes has carefully considered all available options.
The specialist assessments found that significant and highly intrusive works would be required to address the structural concerns. Such works would likely require residents to move out of their homes for extended periods and would not significantly extend the buildings’ lifespan.
After weighing up all options, Portsmouth Homes believes that a planned rehousing programme is the best long-term solution for residents.
When would I need to move?
If the recommendation is approved, no one would be expected to move immediately.
The proposed programme would be delivered gradually over a four-year period, up to 2030.
Any moves would be carefully planned, and residents would be supported throughout the process.
How does the proposal affect me if I have been placed in temporary accommodation in Tipton House, Edgbaston House, Barkis House or Nickleby House?
The proposal does not affect your homelessness application or the Council’s duty to provide temporary accommodation, and it does not affect your eligibility for a permanent or longer-term housing offer. You should speak with your caseholder if you have any questions regarding your application.
What support would be available if the proposal is approved?
If the proposal is approved, Portsmouth Homes will work closely with every household to understand their individual circumstances, needs and preferences.
Dedicated support will be provided throughout the process, including:
- Individual meetings with residents
- A dedicated Decant Housing Officer
- Advice and guidance on rehousing options
- Regular updates and opportunities to ask questions
- Support tailored to each household’s circumstances
What happens next?
If the proposal is approved, Portsmouth Homes will begin speaking with residents individually over the coming weeks.
A member of the team will arrange a time to meet with you, discuss your circumstances and answer any questions you may have.
At this stage, no decisions will need to be made immediately.
How will residents be kept informed?
We are committed to being open, honest and supportive throughout this process.
Residents will receive regular updates and there will be a range of opportunities to ask questions and receive information.
Where can I get more information or ask questions?
There are several ways to get information and speak to someone:
- Speak directly with Portsmouth Homes staff. We are visiting every flat and will return to homes where residents are unavailable today.
- Attend a drop-in session in the community room on the ground floor. Staff will be available between 9am and 7pm on the 27 July and 9am and 5pm on the and 28 July, 29 July and 30 July and 9am and 4pm on 31 July
- Read the information provided alongside this letter in your own time.
- Visit the information point in the community room.
- Speak with your dedicated Decant Housing Officer, Jodie Rook
- Call our dedicated helpline on 023 9284 1674.
- Email decants@portsmouthcc.gov.uk.