Structural supports are set to be installed at council properties after external walkways were deemed potentially unsafe.
Dacorum Borough Council has already put up temporary props after taking advice from the Health and Safety Executive.
Now four planning applications – affecting council flat complexes in 11 Hemel Hempstead streets – have been submitted to planning chiefs.
The council is currently tendering for the contract to carry out the work so the full cost is not yet known and a decision on the planning application has not been made.