Raglan Housing Association has appointed two long term partners to deliver a £285 million, 15 year asset management service to over 10,800 homes across southern England and the Midlands.

Other housing associations and local authorities have already seen the benefits of partnering with a regular work force that gets to know residents and their homes. Residents benefit from a 'right first time' approach, an improved appointments system and a service where partners' profits are driven by performance and measured by residents' satisfaction and repair timescales.

Initially, partners will carry out responsive maintenance using proven systems and best practice. Integrated office working, the latest handheld technology, fully equipped vans and linked supply chains with building suppliers are all part of this service.

In 2009, planned and cyclical works and some service contracts will be included. By 2010 the remaining service contracts plus caretaking, cleaning and grounds maintenance will be added to partners' responsibilities.