Social audit 1989: Objective 5 – Quality of housing

That the co-op provide its members with high-quality housing that is properly and efficiently maintained and serviced.

FINDINGS

1. In  1988,  maintenance staff received  1128 work orders.   On average, 92% of the work orders are completed in the same month. Staff report that  work  is  generally  begun  the  day  the  order  is  received. Outstanding work orders are usually due to ordering of special parts which the Co-op does not stock.

2.  Based on the total number of work orders received last year, the average per unit was 5.8.

3.  88% of the members stated that the quality of housing at Woodsworth is good or excellent.  All groups of members were similarly positive.

4. 73% of all members stated that maintenance service at Woodsworth is good or excellent.  Again, most groups of members were similarly positive, with the exception of single parents, with only 47% saying good or excellent.

5. 70% of all members stated the quality of Woodsworth is better than the housing they occupied  previously.   All groups of members were similarly positive.

6. The most recent unit inspection report (1988) shows that condensation is a problem in 60% of the units inspected.   Smoke detectors that were not working or too sensitive were a problem in 43% of the units inspected.

7. Parking problems were frequently cited by members as a problem at Woodsworth.

IMPLICATIONS

While problems do exist and specific matters were cited by members as problems, the survey shows that members are generally ver] positive  about the  quality of  housing  at Woodsworth.   The  major implication for the future is ensuring that high-quality maintenance wort continues  and that the co-op plan  and  budget for major capita replacements as required.

RECOMMENDED ACTlONS

The Maintenance Committee should be asked to review, update and implement the recommendations made in the capital replacement study

The Maintenance˛ Committee and staff should set up a regular smoke detector inspection, maintenance and education program as a high priority.

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