In 2013 the Housing Ombudsman took over responsibility for all new complaints about social housing. This includes complaints about local authority’s (or arms-length management organisation’s) relationship as landlord to its tenants or leaseholders. The Housing Ombudsman continues to look at complaints about housing associations.
The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman considers complaints about local authorities’ wider activities, for example in discharging their statutory duties in homelessness. There are areas where there may appear to be some overlap between the jurisdiction of the two Ombudsmen. We are both able to conduct joint investigations, and work under a Memorandum of Understanding.
Complaints referred to the Housing Ombudsman
Unless stated otherwise the Housing Ombudsman considers complaints about housing associations and local housing authorities.
Main issue | Things the Housing Ombudsman investigates |
Leasehold services |
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Moving to a property |
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Rent and service charges |
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Occupancy rights |
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Property condition – repairs and improvements |
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Tenant behaviour |
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Estate management |
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Complaint handling |
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Compensation |
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Complaints referred to the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman
Unless stated otherwise the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman considers complaints about local authorities.
Main issue | Things the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman investigates |
Housing allocations under Housing Act 1996 Part 6 |
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Homelessness under Housing Act 1996 Part 7 |
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General housing advice |
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Housing benefit |
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Housing improvement grants |
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Antisocial behaviour |
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Noise nuisance |
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Sale or disposal of land on housing estates |
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Planning and building control at properties owned by a social landlord |
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Adult social care |
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