A HOUSING improvement agency has launched a council-backed scheme offering free surveys to all homeowners in the borough.

Hyndburn Homewise, partly funded by the council, will prepare reports for householders about the state of their properties.

The scheme will involve a survey of the inside and outside of houses, including doors, windows, roofs and damp-proofing.

Residents will then receive advice and a maintenance logbook outlining required repairs.

Urban renewal officer Julian Hickinbottom told the housing services committee: "It is good practise to provide support to owners of such properties.

"If the deterioration of these properties can be halted or slowed it will have a long term effect on the condition of our stock."

Council chiefs are also set to launch a fresh bid for a government grant to fund Homewise.

Coun Jack Grime said: "We owe an immense debt to Homewise and their very dedicated staff. By helping the agency, the council can ensure that properties are kept up to a certain standard."

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