An official government survey of some homes in the borough is offering £20 as thanks to households who help the surveyors do their job.

It’s called a ‘stock condition survey’ and it records various details of a property’s construction and use, ranging from its size, shape, and what it is built from, to whether it is a rental or owner-occupied.

The results inform public policy decisions and strategic housing projects, such as helping get funding for future household energy improvement schemes.

Across Worcestershire the survey is being carried out exclusively by Opinion Research Services, in partnership with Redditch Borough Council and other local authorities.

All residents would need to do if contacted by Opinion Research Services is agree to participate and let the surveyors do their job, which takes just a few minutes.

Redditch Borough Council’s portfolio holder for Housing, Cllr Craig Warhurst, said: “The results of the official stock condition survey help show what’s needed in Redditch, and are used as evidence when it comes to getting funding for things like energy improvement schemes and other capital projects, so it’s an important piece of work.

“Opinion Research Services are the official contractor doing this for us and we would be grateful if you would participate in the survey if you are contacted. You will even get a £20 voucher as a thanks for your time.”

Council Leader Cllr Matt Dormer added: “This data helps paint a picture of Redditch’s needs, and when residents help to refresh it from time to time like this it helps ensure good quality decisions can continue to be made.”

Official council staff and contractors working on the council’s behalf will always carry proper ID and be happy to wait while you check that ID - including validating that they are who they say they are by contacting the council on 01527 64252. Always be scam aware. Anyone who claims to be official but cannot provide proper ID or is not happy to wait while you check they are legitimate, is fraudulent.