Interim Housing Ombudsman appointed
15 July 2026
Andrea Keenoy will serve as interim Ombudsman from 01 August.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has appointed current Chief Operating Officer, Andrea Keenoy, as interim Housing Ombudsman from 01 August.
Following a recent campaign for the next Housing Ombudsman, the minister has decided not to make an appointment at this time. The government will confirm next steps for the role in due course.
Andrea Keenoy will serve as interim Ombudsman in the meantime.
Andrea has held several roles at the Housing Ombudsman Service since joining the organisation in 2015. She has overseen the introduction of a new operating model, the expansion of our workforce from c.80 employees to over 600, and the development of a comprehensive Ombudsman service that achieves positive change. She previously served as interim Housing Ombudsman from 2018 to 2019.
Current Housing Ombudsman, Richard Blakeway, will complete his second and final term on 31 July 2026. During his tenure, Richard Blakeway has overseen significant changes to the service. These include the release of a nationwide Complaint Handling Code and gaining new systemic powers to improve landlords’ services and residents’ lives. He has been a powerful advocate for social housing and the benefits this vital sector brings.
Andrea Keenoy, Chief Operating Officer, said: “Our priority is to ensure continuity and stability for residents, landlords and our colleagues, and to maintain a high standard of service.
“Richard Blakeway led the Ombudsman during a period of intense scrutiny on social housing. From leading the conversation around damp and mould to bringing consistency to complaint handling across all landlords, the changes in attitudes and service delivery he has driven have been significant.
“I look forward to leading the organisation through this next chapter while we wait for the next Housing Ombudsman to be appointed.”