Mr B complained that Cardiff Council had failed to resolve a rat infestation at his home which was believed to be caused by the tenants in the property next door.
The Ombudsman decided that there had been a significant delay by the Council to rectify the problem and this had caused inconvenience and frustration for Mr B. The Ombudsman decided to settle the complaint without an investigation.
The Ombudsman sought and gained the Council’s agreement to, within 4 weeks, apologise to Mr B and offer him £100 financial redress in recognition of the time and trouble taken in complaining to the Ombudsman. The Council also agreed, that it will explain what work it will carry out to ensure the removal of the rats, rectify any damage caused and confirm what measures it will take to reduce the risk of the problem recurring.