Make changes to your council home

Guidance on common changes

CCTV

Sheds and garages

  • sheds must be no larger than 8ft x 6ft
  • leave at least 500mm of space around the shed for access
  • do not block daylight to neighbours
  • use approved materials and maintain them properly
  • speak to us if you need a shed for a mobility scooter or powered chair
  • get written consent for pavement crossings or dropped kerbs
  • do not use sheds or garages for business or commercial vehicles unless we give written permission
  • any electric supply must be installed by a qualified electrician and include a safety certificate

Gas appliances

  • you must not install or use gas cookers or fires unless fitted by Highland Council
  • you must not use paraffin or LPG heaters or cookers

Laminate flooring

  • you lay laminate flooring at your own risk
  • if we need to lift it for repairs, you must pay to have it re-laid
  • not recommended for residential flats due to noise disturbing neighbours

Wood burning stoves

To install a stove, you must:

  • provide a chimney report and full details of the work
  • use a qualified installer
  • tell us about any guarantees
  • have the stove serviced every year and show us proof if asked

Other alterations

  • outdoor taps must not affect plumbing and must be isolated in winter
  • satellite dishes must be installed by a qualified person using correct fixings
  • electric charging equipment must meet safety standards and be installed by a qualified person
  • minor electrical works must have a Minor Works Certificate (BS7671)
  • if your home has external insulation, use longer bolts and fill any holes after removal

Page last modified: 30 July 2025

Housing Maintenance Officer

Contact the service centre to get in touch with your housing maintenance officer

Telephone: 01349 886602