In this edition of One Day Of… we’re stepping into the world of estates inspections and site improvements with Rich Allingham-Price, our Estates Contract Officer. From checking schedules and inspecting blocks to speaking with residents and ensuring everything is up to standard, Rich plays a key role in keeping our communities safe, clean and well looked after. 

Let’s find out what a typical workday looks like for him! 

Getting to know the role

My name is Rich Allingham-Price and I’m an Estates Contract Officer. 
In simple terms, my job is to make sure our contractors are doing what’s expected of them. I check that the work we’ve asked for is being completed to a good standard and report anything that needs fixing, replacing or improving. That includes making sure any health and safety concerns are picked up and passed on quickly. 

What I enjoy most about this job is that no two days are the same. 
One day I could be dealing with landscaping improvements, the next I might be flagging urgent repairs or inspecting meter readings. I also love seeing the positive impact of the work I’ve helped organise – you really get to see the improvements happening on site. 

Morning routines and daily kick-off

How does your day usually begin? 
I always start by checking my van and making sure everything’s in working order. Then I go through my schedule – it’s all on my phone – and double-check I know where I’m going and what I’m inspecting. And yes, I need a coffee! Even in the summer, I can’t start my day without one. 

People, questions and conversations

Who do you speak with most often during the day? 
It’s always great to be able to speak to residents as I go about my day, and I really value hearing from them about their estates.  

I also talk to my team regularly, as well as housing managers. It helps to stay updated on anything new happening at each site. I also touch base with colleagues in case they’ve come across something I should know about – we help each other keep an eye on things. 

Is there a moment that stands out to you? 
Yes – I’d say visiting Kirby Court. It’s home to some of our older residents, and we’ve made noticeable improvements to the grounds and completed some much-needed repairs. Seeing the difference it’s made for them feels really rewarding. 

Key tasks and responsibilities

What does your day involve? 
It’s a mix of inspections, reporting, meter readings and updating health and safety records. I also use a Microsoft app to record everything – it’s clever because we can look back at reports or pull out data if needed. 

What’s the most important part of your job? 
Without a doubt – health and safety. It’s essential for reducing incidents and making sure residents, staff and visitors are safe. From a company perspective, it also protects us from risk – but for me, it’s about doing what’s right for the people living in our homes. 

And the most unpredictable? 
We’re often out and about, walking or driving between sites. You never know what you’ll find – a trip hazard, a fly tip, or even something as serious as a gas leak. That’s just scratching the surface – there’s a lot going on behind the scenes. 

Breaks, coffee and little pauses

What about your breaks – how do you spend lunch? 
Lunch is different every day. Sometimes I eat in the van, sometimes in the office, or even at home if I’m nearby. I do enjoy a coffee and a short TV break on my phone – or catching up with my wife if she’s free for a chat. 

Finishing the day and looking ahead

How does your workday end? 
I like to make sure I’ve finished everything on my list for the day, and I always update my calendar for the next few days so I’m prepared. The best end to the day is when a resident says thank you – it means a lot to hear that the work we do is making a difference. 

Bonus thoughts from Rich 

What advice would you give to someone who wants to do your job? 
Be confident and stand by the decisions you make Don’t be afraid to ask questions and always be ready to adapt to what the day throws at you. 

What keeps you motivated? 
Knowing that I’m helping improve people’s living conditions. Creating spaces that feel safe and cared for really matters to me. 

If you had to describe your workday in one word? 
Variable. Every day is different – and that’s what makes it exciting. 

Need to report an issue in your building or outside space? 

Our Customer Service team is your first point of call for any points you’d like to raise or ask questions about. They work closely with colleagues like Rich to make sure everything’s running smoothly. You can contact them here.  

Stay tuned for the next edition of One Day Of…, where we’ll introduce another friendly face from the TCH team!