
Customers can still make payments, but online account balances may not be updated until Tuesday 17 December, we apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Home modernisation
As a council tenant with a secure tenancy or a leaseholder, you may want to make improvements, alterations and additions to your home, including putting up satellite dishes.
To do this you must get written permission from us.

What improvements and alterations can I do?
- installing laminate flooring
- altering the layout of the property
- refitting kitchens and/or bathrooms
- installing or renewing central heating
- adding conservatories and/or sheds
- altering or adding fencing
- installing security grilles on front doors and windows
- installing or changing satellite dishes
- dropping curbs for vehicle access
- introducing hard surfacing for car parking
- rewiring
- removing chimney breasts.
Alterations you can't make to your council home
Replacing windows
Building extensions
Installation of aerials or satellite equipment on flats or maisonettes
Development of roof space, loft areas or basements
External repairs
Applying for permission to do home improvements
Step 1
- a full description of the type of work
- scale drawings of existing layout and proposed layout
- a structural engineer’s report if you want to remove walls etc
Step 2
- a copy of your planning permission
- copies of your building regulation approval
- proof that your contents insurance policy includes third party liability
- details of the contractor who will do the work, and proof of their public liability insurance
- original copies of the Certification for Gas and electrical contractors
- a copy of an up-to-date asbestos survey by an HSE-approved contractor
- a copy of Party Notice
- written confirmation that you will agree to the terms and conditions of the approval.
Step 3
Asbestos in council homes
Contact us
-
Technical Group – Property Services
London Borough of Newham
Bridge Road Depot
Abbey Road
London
E15 1LX
020 3373 6396
Email us