Complaining to your landlord

Complaints are usually based around the condition of a property. Disrepair, dampness, lack of facilities, lighting, ventilation, and numerous other things may negatively affect the tenant. In the initial stages of letting their property, the landlord should set out the complaints procedure to the tenant. Although there is no model way of complaining to a landlord, the following guide may facilitate the procedure for both landlords and tenants. 

The procedure should be easily completed, and should also have an informal stage before a formal complaint takes place. This can be as simple as a notification to the landlord that there is a problem with the property. The procedure should define the exact nature of the complaint, and clearly outline its intention. There should be no jargon and the complaint should be written in plain English. A governing body should be appointed to mediate between landlord and tenant. 

The Housing Ombudsman service deals with complaints of a council housing nature, and complaints about some landlords who are part of the scheme. Before complaining to the Ombudsman, you should have tried your hardest to discuss the problem with the landlord.

Independent Housing Ombudsman

Norman House

105-109 The Strand

London WC2R 0AA

Phone: 020 7836 3630

Lo-call phone: 0345 125973

Fax: 020 7836 3900

E-mail: ombudsman@ihos.org.uk

Website: www.ihos.org.uk

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