Council that ‘sacked’ Morgan Sindall immediately reinstates firm for £1m extra
Summary
Basildon Borough Council has extended its housing repairs contract with Morgan Sindall Property Services for a further year at an additional cost of £1m, after previously signalling it would end the arrangement. The council says the extension was necessary to maintain continuity of service while it develops a longer-term delivery model, following criticism from the Regulator of Social Housing over safety and quality assurance failings.
Why it matters
The case highlights the operational and governance risks that can arise when a local authority changes its housing repairs strategy without a fully developed replacement model. For surveyors involved in social housing, maintenance, compliance and stock condition, it underscores the importance of robust repair delivery, safety checks and procurement planning.
Key points
- Basildon Council reversed its earlier decision to end the Morgan Sindall contract and agreed a one-year extension.
- The extension cost an additional £1m and was described by the new leadership as necessary to avoid service disruption.
- The council owns around 10,750 social housing properties.
- The Regulator of Social Housing previously identified very serious failings at the council, including weak assurance over home safety and quality.
- The council says it will procure a new model for repairs and maintenance rather than bring the service in-house immediately.
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