Synergize wins £12.5m contract to upgrade homes for Kent housing provider

Specialist building modernisation and enhancement firm Synergize has secured a £12.5 million contract to deliver external works and improve the energy efficiency of homes across Kent.

The five-year contract, with social housing provider MHS Homes, has been awarded to Harrogate-based Synergize following a competitive procurement process based on a cost and quality assessment. MHS Homes has the option to extend the contract for a further three years, taking its potential value and duration to eight years.

MHS Homes manages around 10,000 properties across Medway, Maidstone, Gravesham, Dartford and Tonbridge & Malling, providing homes and services to around 26,000 residents.

Synergize’s work, which begins in October, will primarily focus on the replacement and improvement of windows and doors, flat and pitched roofing across MHS Homes’ properties.

The programme will also support improvements to the building fabric of homes, helping properties meet target Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) standards while improving thermal efficiency.

Synergize will work with MHS Homes to support a new strategic approach to planned improvements, combining individual component replacements with a more holistic assessment of properties and their longer-term requirements.

By looking beyond individual elements of a property, the approach will help MHS Homes assess where investment can deliver the greatest long-term value, while ensuring works are coordinated effectively and supporting the overall performance of homes.

Synergize will also carry out validation surveys of asset data provided by MHS Homes, using the information to model different approaches to the work and identify options that provide the best long-term value.

This will include assessing different approaches to the scope and specification of works, including options designed to maintain EPC standards over a 15 to 20-year period rather than focusing solely on the immediate requirement.

The contract also includes framework pricing for additional work, including external wall insulation, kitchens, bathrooms and wet rooms, should MHS Homes require further support during the contract period.

The appointment significantly expands Synergize’s presence in Kent, building on its existing infrastructure supporting its Ministry of Defence contract in the region.

The company will use its established local supply chain and regional presence to support delivery, creating opportunities for local employment and generating efficiencies through its existing operations.

Synergize will combine its own in-house trades with specialist subcontractors to deliver the programme. During the first 12 months, a dedicated senior management structure will support mobilisation and delivery, including a senior site manager, site manager and construction manager providing dedicated oversight.

Mark Loftus, Managing Director at Synergize, said: “This contract represents a significant step forward for Synergize in Kent and gives us the opportunity to combine our technical expertise with our existing regional infrastructure and supply chain.
“By using asset data to understand the condition and future requirements of properties, we can help MHS Homes make informed decisions about where investment will deliver the greatest long-term value.

“Taking a more holistic approach to planned works also gives us the opportunity to consider how individual improvements fit within the wider needs of a property, rather than looking at components in isolation.

“Improving the fabric and energy performance of homes can also make a real difference to residents, helping to reduce energy consumption and improve the quality and efficiency of their homes.

“We’re also committed to making sure the benefits of the contract are felt locally through employment opportunities, community initiatives and our environmental commitments.”

Lorraine Gray, Head of Investment at MHS Homes, said: “Appointing Synergize as one of our planned works contractors has strengthened our ability to deliver planned improvements efficiently and effectively. Their expertise supports our commitment to achieving value for money, streamlining delivery and providing a better experience for our customers.”

The contract is due to commence in October, with the initial five-year term running until 2031 and extension options potentially taking the partnership through to 2033.