Miss A complained about the Council’s handling of her housing application and the action taken in relation to rent arrears on a property that she had accepted, but not lived in.
The Ombudsman found that there were communication failings, and opportunities for the Council to have informed Miss A to provide Notice to Quit sooner. As a result, Miss A accrued substantial rent arrears. This caused Ms A significant stress and matters remain unresolved for her. The Ombudsman decided to settle the complaint without an investigation.
The Council agreed to, within 4 weeks, reconsider Miss A’s complaint and whether she should be liable for the full amount of rent arrears. It also agreed to provide Miss A with a formal complaint response, addressing all matters raised with the Council and the Ombudsman.