2025 seems to have disappeared in a flash. Residents, committee members and co-op staff have kept busy over the last twelve months, welcoming new neighbours, saying goodbye to others and maintaining the estate with as much energy and commitment as ever.

Wherever you will be over the festive season, in this final newsletter of the year, the Committee would like to wish all residents and away leaseholders a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Co-op Business

The committee recently attended two days of training to ensure they are up to date with legislative and regulatory changes, and that they fully understand what is expected of them. We were pleased to welcome trainer Paula from the Confederation of Co-operative Housing, who highlighted recent developments and ongoing risks that all co-ops need to be aware of.

Government and councils are now enforcing stricter safety, repair, and quality standards for all social housing. Under the Decent Homes Standard, homes must be free from serious hazards, in a reasonable state of repair, and provide modern facilities and adequate thermal comfort. To help us meet these expectations, Wandsworth Council has provided funding so that some properties can be brought up to standard — for example, through new kitchens, rewiring, and other essential improvements.

Residents should also look out for the Residents’ Satisfaction Survey, which will be issued in the new year. The survey will be available both digitally and in print. If you would prefer a paper copy, please let us kno,w and we will provide one. The questions are set by the Housing Ombudsman, who collect the results nationally and report back, allowing us to understand how we are performing in comparison with other housing organisations.

Front doors have also taken up a considerable amount of time. Every front door on the estate is now required to be inspected annually. Our first inspection identified a small number of non-compliant doors, and we have been working closely with the affected residents to resolve this

Balconies and Drains

Residents with balconies are reminded to keep them clean and tidy. Drains must remain uncovered and free from blockages at all times, and autumn leaves should be cleared away regularly. Failure to do so may invalidate the builder’s guarantee and could result in residents being recharged significant costs for any required repairs. Blocked drains can impact your home and neighbouring properties, leading to leaks, damp, and potential structural damage.

Gardening Club

We have recently been able to purchase a range of gardening tools thanks to Wandsworth’s Small Improvement Budget Scheme. If you fancy exercising your green fingers, find out how you can get involved by contacting the office. Come grow stuff!

Service Charges for 2024/2025

Service charges for Convent Co-operative leaseholders and freeholders remain consistently lower than the borough average.

2026 Meeting Dates