People moving into Derby to live, from a country outside the EEC, have to confirm that they are moving into accommodation that is of a suitable standard and that will not be made overcrowded by their arrival.

A named individual normally has to sponsor the person moving into the area and this individual or the sponsor, is asked by the immigration authority for proof that the property being moved into, is suitable. The British High Commission usually ask that a suitably qualified Surveyor or Environmental Health Officer undertake this work.

The survey is designed to ensure that the accommodation meets the following criteria: -

• the minimum fitness standard under the Housing Acts (use this link to see our page on the introduction of the Housing Health and Safety Rating System);
  
• is in a reasonable state of repair; and
  
• has sufficient space to accommodate both the existing occupiers and any additional people who propose to live there.
  

Immigration Accommodation Reports

In order to request an Immigration Accommodation Report, please contact Peartree Home Improvement Centre on 01332 718801, and you will be sent an application form.

Derby City Council will only visit to assess the immigration applicant's proposed accommodation once the completed application form is received together with a cheque for the correct fee.

High Commissions do not insist that the Council prepares your accommodation reports, you can instead contact a private surveyor, building engineer, reputable estate agent, private environmental health officer or similar for an inspection report. They will charge a fee for this service, which you will need to negotiate with them.

Professional organisations such as the Association of Building Engineers, can provide details of local providers, please contact them on 01604 404121.

If you require more detailed information on the service, please contact Peartree Home Improvement Centre on 01332 718808.

Fees

The Council charges these non-refundable fees for this service:

• £82.25 for routine inspection requests
• £176.25 for urgent requests required within eight working days of application
• £23.50 for requests to amend the applicant details or the report.
  

Visits

When the Council visit, you will need to provide evidence of the applicant’s right, or yours, to occupy the accommodation, such as the tenancy agreement or proof of home ownership.

What happens next?

After the visit, the Council will confirm in writing that the accommodation is suitable, or explain why it is not.

Contact us

For more information please contact us using the details below:

Pear Tree Home Improvement Centre
Housing and Advice Services
182 Pear Tree Road
Derby
DE23 9BR

Telephone: 01332 71 8801
Minicom: 01332 29 3129