I do not understand how or why tenants would and would be allowed to refuse improvements to ‘their’ council house. In my own experience the improvement works – new kitchens & bathrooms – have been first class. Yes a few issues with some shoddy workmanship by contractors, but sorted with a word with the works supervisor. New, clean and functional fittings.
But the other point is how tenants are allowed to refuse. If it was a H&S issue like smoke detector or the gas supply for instance, works would have to be carried out.
I hope that any repairs reported to the council on ‘old style’ kitchen/bathroom are either refused or charged to the tenant.