Key information
Executive summary
In line with the approved policy the MPS have undertaken the annual review to ensure that residential rents for officers who joined after September 1994 and are in occupation of residential accommodation, and for service charges for officers in section houses remain consistent with the change in Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) rents charged in London Boroughs.
Based on rental data relating to London based RSLs from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) the DMPC is now asked to approve the proposed rents set out in paragraph 2.2. If implemented the effect of the proposed increase will be to raise an additional estimated £7,154 per annum.
Recommendation
The DMPC is recommended to approve the proposed rent and service charge levels as set out in paragraph 2.2 and attached appendix.
Non-confidential facts and advice to the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime (DMPC)
1. Introduction and background
1.1. The withdrawal of rent free residential accommodation for newly appointed officers was implemented with effect from September 1994 arising from the Sheehy Report.
1.2. The previously agreed policy is to annually review the rents and service charges for officer accommodation in line with the change in rents charged by Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) who operate in London Boroughs.
2. Issues for consideration
2.1. Currently there are 10 officers (16 last year) who have an assured shorthold tenancy or room licence, and a further 47 (66 last year) who occupy Section House accommodation. Further reductions in officers using this accommodation, which may impact on the income generated, may arise due to recruiting from the London-only area.
2.2. Based on HCA rental data for the increase in social housing rents across London Boroughs the proposed rent levels are set out in the attached Appendix.
3. Financial Comments
3.1. Based on the current level of tenants residential rent income is expected to be £86,626 in 2018/19, an increase of £2,154 from 2017/18.
3.2. Based on the current level of section house tenants section house service charge income is expected to be £377,000 in 2018/1, an increase of £5,000 from 2017/18.
4. Legal Comments
4.1 There are no legal implications arising from this proposal.
5. Equality Comments
5.1 There are no equality or diversity implications arising from this report.
6. Background/supporting papers
MPS Report
Signed decision document
PCD 362