Melville extends multi-million pound window improvement programme to further 248 homes

New windows deliver 11% improvement in energy efficiency

An additional 248 Melville homes are to benefit from new, energy-efficient windows after the landlord, the largest registered social landlord in Midlothian, approved plans to extend its current window replacement programme. Once the work is completed, all 1,760 of the Dalkeith-based Housing Association’s properties will have been fitted with modern double glazed windows.

Carried out by Perth-based windows specialists Sidey, the extension to the programme will start in August and see new windows fitted in Melville homes in Bonnyrigg, Loanhead, Mayfield, Pathhead, Poltonhall and Rosewell. The additional work will take investment on new windows to almost £3 million since the original replacement programme started in February 2008.

The work carried out so far has been to an extremely high standard with the new windows improving energy efficiency by an average of 11% and proving hugely popular with tenants. Satisfaction levels are running at 99% with tenants reserving particular praise for the professionalism of the workmen, the greater efficiency of the windows and the ease with which they can be cleaned.

Ian Slamin, Melville’s Property Services Director, commented, “We have been extremely pleased with the work carried out by Sidey so far and are delighted to announce this extension to what has already been a very popular home improvement programme.

“By replacing windows in so many of our properties we are making a real investment for the future. These new windows improve comfort, energy efficiency and the appearance of homes as well as also being much easier to look after. In the longer term they will reduce maintenance costs, save tenants money on energy bills and cut down the carbon footprint of our homes. We look forward to seeing the excellent work continue.”

The window replacement programme is an important part of Melville Housing’s drive to reach the Scottish Government’s Scottish Housing Quality Standard, which all social landlords in Scotland must meet by 2015.

Steve Hardy, Sidey’s Commercial Sales Director, commented “Sidey is delighted to continue working with Melville Housing Association in improving their tenants homes and contributing to a sustainable future. This partnership between Melville and Sidey is one of the first in Scotland to have put Energy Efficient products at its core. The Solartherm Windows that Sidey has been installing for Melville have been well received by the householders who have benefited from lower household bills and more comfortable, efficient homes. Sidey is pleased to see this reflected in the Tenant Satisfaction rates for the partnership”