Annual Review 2007/8 - Hanover

Ahead of the curve
We are raising the bar for quality standards
in our properties; driven by pride in what
we do. Our new properties are built to
the very best modern standards and our
existing properties already meet the Decent
Homes Standard; though we cannot be
complacent and are taking action to drive up
standards further to meet the expectations of
tomorrow’s residents.
We are planning for the future now. Nowhere
is this more evident than in our commitment
to sustainable properties. Our new design,
environmental and maintenance guidelines,
Hanover Quality Standard, is tomorrow’s
benchmark introduced today. Formulated
with input from residents and created to
meet the aspirations and ambitions of future
generations of older people, the standard
forms part of our approach to managing all
of Hanover’s properties.
We are learning more about renewable
technologies. In most of our new
developments, we already meet or
exceed Level 3 equivalent of the Code for
Sustainable Homes; meaning our properties
are a good way on the scale towards being
more energy and water efficient, producing
fewer carbon emissions and are better for
the environment.
We are the leading provider of Extra Care
housing and continuously look to improve
the exceptional living environments that
this form of housing can offer older people.
Over the last year we have built 13 new
developments across the breadth of England
creating an additional 516 homes for people
to rent or buy. This means that in total,
we now manage 2,083 properties across
53 locations.
A BLUEPRINT FOR GREENER LIVING
Darcy House in Dagenham, Essex, is a stunning
example of how first class retirement properties
can be designed and maintained sustainably.
It adheres to exacting standards such as
EcoHomes ‘Very Good’ standard, The Housing
Corporation’s scheme development standards
and ‘Lifetime Homes’ standards.
Designed to respect the environment, it has
superb green credentials that complement the
art deco exterior, including roof mounted solar
panels and wind turbines providing hot water,
heating and power. The roof of the main building
and bungalows are also planted with natural
vegetation which helps improve insulation,
reduces water loss and creates a natural
environment for biodiversity.
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