Critical disrepair is any disrepair to the critical elements of the dwelling. The critical elements are those whose condition is central to a dwelling being wind and weather proof, structurally stable and safeguarded against further rapid deterioration. Examples of critical elements are roof coverings, external doors/windows/walls and chimneys.

Based on figures from 2008-2010, in Aberdeenshire there are 39,000 (or 48%) of private sector houses with some form of critical disrepair.

20,000 (or 24%) of private sector houses have some form of urgent disrepair.

The main challenges in Aberdeenshire are:

Promoting greater responsibility amongst homeowners to carry out repairs and maintenance to their homes. Homeowners are generally not always aware of the condition of their property and do not always know the best way to carry out repairs.

Improving the energy efficiency of housing that is hard to treat or expensive to treat, especially in areas where there is no access to mains gas.

Promoting greater responsibility

The Scheme of Assistance is a major part of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 and is a policy designed to improve the condition of private sector housing. Aberdeenshire Council’s Scheme of Assistance is available whereby homeowners are helped to carry out repairs and maintenance to their homes. It aims to bring about a cultural change in the attitudes of homeowners, whereby they take more responsbility for the repairs and maintenance of their homes.

The Scheme of Assistance aims to help homeowners to become more proactive in investing in the condition of their houses. Achieving a more proactive approach across Aberdeenshire, as with the rest of Scotland, is a major challenge and it is recognised that the required levels of repairs and improvements cannot be achieved through financial assistance alone. What is required is a culture amongst homeowners that promotes greater responsibility when dealing with repairs and improvements to their homes.