Social Housing Shifts: Focus on Repairs with Poplar HARCA’s New Role

Social housing providers across the country constantly look for ways to improve property upkeep, reduce maintenance backlogs, and keep residents satisfied. With Poplar HARCA’s recent job posting for a Head of Repairs based in London, the sector shines a light on the importance of efficient, innovative repairs management.

Prioritising Resident Wellbeing

A Head of Repairs is not just about ticking boxes; it is about actively ensuring that residents feel safe and comfortable in their homes. Avoiding long wait times, improving response quality, and creating clear communication channels can transform the resident experience.

Embracing Smarter Repairs Solutions

Many housing associations are now exploring digital-first solutions to handle routine and emergency repairs—technologies that include real-time video triage and AI-powered diagnostics. Tools like Aidenn, an AI repairs assistant, empower residents to troubleshoot common issues themselves, saving time and resources.

Reducing Unnecessary Call-Outs

By leveraging remote video support from engineers—something offered through Help me Fix’s video triage—maintenance teams can diagnose problems from afar, de-escalating emergencies that would normally require on-site visits. As social housing providers are facing budget cuts and higher resident demands, remote triage significantly reduces expenses and carbon emissions.

Innovation at the Heart of Repairs

By focusing on forward-thinking technologies, housing providers can invest in processes that not only cut costs but also empower front-line teams. In many cases, AI-driven services, such as Aidenn and the Help me Fix remote engineer network, provide faster resolutions and improve overall resident satisfaction.

"A role like Head of Repairs can be transformational when paired with a robust digital platform. Efficiency and resident satisfaction go hand in hand—and technology is key to achieving both."

Ettan Bazil, Founder & CEO

Why This Matters Now

Recruiting a Head of Repairs highlights the drive to manage property maintenance effectively. With job postings like the one from Poplar HARCA, social housing providers demonstrate the sector’s commitment to making repairs more efficient and sustainable.

To learn more about how technology can enhance social housing management, visit Help me Fix for Social Housing.