Planned move - otherwise known as a Decant

Darlington Borough Council aims to maintain homes to a good standard and ensure tenant safety. Sometimes, tenants need to move temporarily or permanently to allow repairs or redevelopment. This process is called a planned move - otherwise known as a Decant.

What is a Decant?

• A decant occurs when you need to move out of your home for repairs, redevelopment, or emergencies.
• Planned moves can be temporary, emergency, or permanent.

Types of moves.

• Temporary planned moves: Required for extensive works, severe flood damage, or structural safety issues. Options include:
• Staying with friends or family (with compensation for rent charges).
• Hotel/B&B accommodation.
• Private rental accommodation arranged by the council.
• Emergency Decant: Immediate move due to fire, flood, or severe damage. We will:
• Help find emergency accommodation.
• Assist with housing applications if repairs take a long time.
• Advise on contents insurance for lost belongings.
• Permanent Decant: When homes are demolished or redeveloped. Current tenants:
• Will be awarded Band 1+ priority for rehousing via Darlington HomeSearch.
• We may consult on redevelopment plans and amenities that are happening in the area.
• You could receive direct offers for specialist or extra-care housing.

Support Provided During Decant

• We will communicate with you clearly.
• Provide Information on timescales and regular updates on any additional delays.
• Undertake an  assessment to identify any additional housing needs and support you may require.
• Provide financial assistance towards removal costs and storage if required.

Compensation

• Home-loss Payment: For permanent moves if you’ve lived in your home for 12+ months. This amount is governed by Home Loss Payments (Prescribed Amounts) Regulations.
• Disturbance Payment: Covers reasonable moving expenses for temporary decants or if you’ve lived in your home less than 12 months.
• Payments will be processed within four weeks of your claim.
• Outstanding rent arrears or debts will be deducted from any compensation payment.
• Contribution towards food costs, if you do not have cooking facilities because you are living in a hotel.

For more details see our Decant Guide.[pdf document]