5.1 BEFORE THE WORKS
This is the period when residents are informed about improvement plans. It is a time of anticipation, delay and worry. The resident maybe living in a poor physical environment that may be cold, damp and unsafe; they may be disabled and awaiting housing adaptations. The resident may be offered choices about the design of fixtures and fittings and be consulted about other potential home improvements.

Whole house and high-rise refurbishments typically involve relocation of existing residents during the period of improvements (decanting). Relocation can either be temporary, while homes are refurbished, or permanent. Relocation may be voluntary or compulsory. Residents moved to unfamiliar locations with unfamiliar neighbours can contribute towards anxiety, uncertainty and fear. Compulsory relocation has potentially far greater negative health impacts.

Residential relocation process

• Develop a clear, coherent residential relocation strategy for whole house and high-rise refurbishments and new build.
• Define open, transparent and equitable housing relocation systems and processes.
• Make the strategy publicly accessible through a Website.
• Involve tenants in the development of the strategy.