Ever wondered what happens to a home between one resident moving out and the next moving in? This month we share that process, with a look behind the scenes at a Void Inspection.
At Staffs Housing, we’re committed to providing quality, affordable homes that are safe, welcoming, and ready for their next chapter. And we’re proud to say that our residents are playing a hands-on role in making that happen.
Thanks to our amazing Void Inspectors – a team of volunteer residents from across our communities – we’re making sure tenants have a say in the condition and quality of our homes before they’re re-let.
This month, our newly recruited Void Inspectors gathered for their very first inspection at West End Village. This first session was all about getting familiar with the role, learning what to look for, and understanding how their input shapes the final standard of a home before someone new moves in.
What does a Void Inspection involve?
Armed with clipboards, checklists, and plenty of enthusiasm, the team was joined by Helen, our Void Specialist, and Jayne, our Customer Voice Specialist, who guided them through the process.
Inspections take around 30 minutes and cover everything from:
- Fixtures and fittings
- Cleanliness
- Safety features
- Signs of damage or wear and tear
Void Inspectors note their findings on a simple checklist, and anything that needs attention is raised with our teams and contractors. Once the work is completed, the Void Inspectors will return to reinspect the property, ensuring everything has been done to the high standards we expect.
It’s all part of our commitment to thriving homes and communities – shaped by our customers every step of the way.
What the inspectors found
The team found the property in a good general condition and felt the previous tenant had looked after it well. But our eagle-eyed inspectors still picked up a few things:
- Peeling paint where wall fixings had been removed
- A broken door closer on the front door
- A locked window with no working key
- A broken bathroom tile
- A non-standard plug socket that needed removing
Each issue has now been logged and will be addressed before the property is re-let, ensuring the next resident moves into a home that’s not only functional, but also feels fresh, safe, and ready to live in.
Meet the team behind the inspections
Our Void Inspectors bring a wide range of skills, experience, and motivations to the role – and that’s what makes it so powerful.
Ken, who previously worked for a local council inspecting void properties said: “I loved my former role, and it’s great to be able to ring that experience here. It’s not just about ticking boxes – it’s about making sure we’re doing things right and providing a service for residents that is value for money. There’s a lot of people who don’t understand what goes into making a home liveable again, whereas I do and I’m excited to use my experience to make a difference.”
Wendy, a resident from Meir, joined the team looking to get involved and give back: “I’ve got children, and one with autism, and it’s important for me to have something that’s mine – something I can make a real difference in. This role gives me that, and I’m going to give it my all. The checklist is simple, and today’s session really helped me feel confident about doing the role in the future.”
Cheryl, who’s lived in her Staffs Housing home in Leek for nine years and has over 20 years’ experience in housing, shared: “This was a great way to put my skills to use. I’ve worked as a Housing Officer for over 20 years, and I understand the process and what it takes to get them back up to a liveable standard. It feels great to be using my knowledge to make a real difference.”
Helping shape quality affordable homes
We believe our homes are at their best when they’re shaped by the people who live in them. The Void Inspector role is a brilliant example of that in action – showing just how much pride our residents take in helping improve homes for others.
This is so much more than a tick-box exercise. It’s about creating places people are proud to call home – and having residents directly inform and influence that process makes all the difference.
Because at Staffs Housing – and across the wider Honeycomb Group – we’re building more than homes. We’re creating thriving future by building communities shaped by the people who live in them.
Do you think you have what it takes to become a Void Inspector?
Get in touch with our Customer Voice Specialist Jayne by emailing involved@honeycombgroup.org.uk or calling 01782 744533 and you could help turn an empty property into a home.
