The Ombudsman's final decision
Summary: We will not investigate Miss X’s complaint about being charged an inflated rent. This is because the complaint does not meet the tests in our Assessment Code on how we decide which complaints to investigate. There is no Council involvement in Miss X’s private tenancy matters so we have no remit to investigate.
The complaint
Miss X complains about a sudden unexplained increase in her rent. She says the Council has not been helpful when she complained.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
We provide a free service, but must use public money carefully. We do not start an investigation if we decide the tests set out in our Assessment Code are not met. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6), as amended) We cannot investigate complaints about actions which are not the administrative function of a council. (Local Government Act 1974, section 26(1) as amended).
How I considered this complaint
I considered information provided by the complainant.
I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.
Final decision
We will not investigate Miss X’s complaint because it does not meet the tests in the Assessment Code on how we decide which complaints to investigate. Miss X’s tenancy is held with a private landlord and she lives in a privately owned property. The Council has no contractual arrangement with Miss X so we have no remit to investigate.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman