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As part of our commitment to invest in our existing homes and neighbourhoods, we look to replace our tenants' kitchens once they come to the end of their lifecycle.
This is to ensure that your home remains in a good and safe condition.
If you are due a new kitchen, we will contact you via a written letter to explain the next steps. We understand you might have some questions, so please take a look at our FAQs below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kitchens need replacing as they age and wear over time. Our records show that your kitchen is now due to be replaced, so we will be updating your kitchen as part of our Kitchen Investment Programme.
A kitchen upgrade usually takes 10 to 15 working days. During this time, we will remove your existing kitchen, complete any necessary repairs and preparation work and fit your new kitchen. Work takes place Monday to Friday, between 8am and 5pm.
Not necessarily. If you will not be at home, we can arrange for a key safe to be installed. Your Customer Liaison Officer will discuss and agree access arrangements with you during their initial home visit.
We have appointed HMS to carry out your kitchen upgrade. HMS may also use approved subcontractors. All Torus, HMS and contractor colleagues will always carry photographic ID.
Installation is typically completed within three months of the Design Team visit and Asbestos Survey being completed. HMS will provide you with the programme of works so you know what to expect.
For health and safety reasons, your kitchen will be out of use while the work is being completed. To help during this time, we can provide a temporary sink and temporary tabletop cooker with two electric rings. If you have a microwave or air fryer, these can also be useful alternatives. Your Customer Liaison Officer will discuss arrangements with you before work starts.
Before work begins, you will need to:
The installation team will disconnect and remove your cooker.
HMS can help moving larger appliances, such as washing machines and fridge freezers. However, they cannot accept liability for any damage that may occur while moving these items.
No. The layout of your kitchen will remain the same. Walls will not be moved or repositioned. However, some electrical or plumbing work may be required as part of the installation.
As work will only take place in the kitchen, there is no need to move out. If you have any specific medical or other support needs, please discuss this with your Customer Liaison Officer during the initial visit.
As your landlord, Torus is responsible for maintaining homes to a safe and good standard. As outlined in your tenancy agreement, you are required to let us in to your home for essential improvement works.
If you have concerns about the work, please speak to us. Any refusals will be investigated on a case-by-case basis.
We deliver our improvement programme area by area and aim to complete all eligible properties within the programme timescales. If we’re unable to access your home during the period proposed, unfortunately there is no guarantee that we can return another time.
Your new kitchen will include unit doors, worktops, cooker splashback and flooring. You will be able to choose from two luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring options and two door handle styles. The kitchen is designed to suit the existing layout of your space. Once you have approved the design and the signed the form, your selections cannot be changed.
As part of the Kitchen Investment Programme, all work must meet the Torus specification. This means that all existing flooring and sinks will be removed and replaced.
No. There is no cost to you for your new kitchen.
If you have any questions, concerns or complaints during the installation, please speak to your HMS Customer Liaison Officer in the first instance. If the issue has not resolved, contact the Torus Customer Hub who will log your query and help investigate the matter.
Drying times may take longer in winter due to the colder temperatures. Your new kitchen will be ready to use as soon as it is safe, functional and fully operational.