The Ombudsman's final decision
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about the Council’s contractors damaging the complainant’s property. This is because we have no remit to consider complaints about the management of social housing.
The complaint
In summary, Miss X complains about damage to her property caused by the Council’s contractors working on a neighbouring Council property. Miss X would like her complaint investigated, an apology, compensation, and a new fence.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
The Local Government Act 1974 sets out our powers but also imposes restrictions on what we can investigate.
We cannot investigate complaints about the provision or management of social housing by a council acting as a registered social housing provider. (Local Government Act 1974, paragraph 5A schedule 5, as amended)
How I considered this complaint
I considered information provided by Miss X.
I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.
My assessment
We cannot investigate this complaint. This is because we have no remit to investigate matters in connection with the management of social housing. This restriction applies to Miss X’s complaint.
Final decision
We cannot investigate Miss X’s complaint because it arises from the management of social housing by the Council.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman