FAQs
Listed below are some of the questions we are asked most frequently. Please contact us if there are any other questions you think we should add.

What are the rent free weeks?
For those tenants that qualify, the rent free weeks are the weeks beginning Monday:
31st March 2008
7th April 2008
22nd December 2008
29th December 2008
To avoid confusion, we are now referring to these as 'collection free weeks'. Tenants pay rent for 52 weeks of the year, but the money is collected during 48 weeks.

What items are included in a Sinking Fund?
The following are funded through the Sinking fund:

• Lifts - both commercial ones and individuals stair lifts.
• Door Entry systems - these would usually be mostly at the Sheltered.
• External works e.g. painting and installation of double glazed windows.
• Communal TV aerial systems
• Communal room upgrades - not only painting decorating, replacing curtains and carpets, but also cookers and fridges if in kitchens
• Fire detection equipment
• Laundry equipment.

How do I make a complaint?
You can make a formal complaint in person, by telephone, by letter or through our website. You can also make a complaint by completing the form in the Complaints Leaflet. We promise that we will take all complaints seriously, we will investigate them thoroughly and we will let you know the outcome of the investigation.

last updated 17.10.06

Does Magna operate a shared ownership scheme?
Yes, we do, but currently on limited sites. The grant funded scheme is based on buyer taking a 40% - 50% stake in the property and paying a rent on the balance - usually less than 2.5% of the equity value + a small service charge . In overall terms, this is cheaper than outright purchase. Shared owners are fully responsible for maintenance matters on the home. We have shared ownership homes just starting on site at McCreery Rd, Sherborne and off Pottery Lane, Weymouth.

If you are interested in Shared Ownership please contact Lin Burt on 01305 214063.

What can I expect from the Sheltered Housing Service?
Please click here for a list of what you can expect from our Sheltered Housing Service.

How can I get more involved in what Magna does?
There are many, exciting ways you can get involved in what Magna does. If you are a tenant, you should speak to the members of staff that deal with tenant participation (Jason Webster on 01305 216086 for Dorset or Clive Barclay on 01984 635134 for Somerset)  

You could also become a member of one of our Boards, please contact Christine Curran (01305 216111) to find out more details (anyone can apply to become a Board member).