Introductory remarks

In this section, the term ‘maintenance’ should be understood as a set of activities which are required and undertaken to conserve the original condition of the housing as much as possible and for as long as possible.

While the maintenance of the reception facility falls under the overall responsibility of the relevant authorities in the Member States, applicants may also be involved on a voluntary basis, if allowed by national legislation/regulations. In some cases, this would also be remunerated as part of the small jobs given out within the collective housing. In those cases, the process should be supervised by the responsible body or by a special company responsible for maintenance works.

Standards and indicators

Indicator 17.1: The good functioning of the housing and its furniture and equipment is assessed on a regular basis.

• Additional remarks: These checks should take place at least on a yearly basis. A checklist can help when carrying out the assessment.

Indicator 17.2: Applicants have the possibility to report the need for maintenance and repairs.

Indicator 17.3: Repairs and replacements needed within the housing are carried out promptly and with adequate quality.

• Additional remarks: Without prejudice to the fact that the overall responsibility for maintenance of the housing lies with the reception authority, certain maintenance tasks could be carried out by the applicants as part of small jobs — provided that these are remunerated and assigned on a voluntary basis. The overall supervision should lie in any event with the responsible body.