Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about an unsuccessful housing application. This is because the Council has re-opened the application and will reconsider it.

The complaint

1. The complainant, Mr X complains about the Council’s unfair handling of his housing application. He says he provided the supporting documents and there was no reason for the Council to close his application.

Back to top

The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. It is our decision whether to start, and when to end an investigation into something the law allows us to investigate. (Local Government Act 1974, sections 24A(6) and 34B(8), as amended)

Back to top

How I considered this complaint

3. I considered information provided by Mr X and the Council. This includes correspondence about Mr X’s housing application and an update from the Council. I also considered our Assessment Code.

Back to top

My assessment

4. Mr X applied to join the housing register. The Council cancelled the application because it says he did not provide the supporting evidence within the stated deadline. Mr X denies this and says he provided proof to the Council that he sent the documents on time.
5. In response to our initial enquires the Council said it had contacted Mr X and re-opened the application which it will re-assess. This reassessment will include the handling of the application and whether Mr X meets the criteria to join the housing register. We do not assess housing applications and it will be for the Council to decide if Mr X is eligible.

Back to top

Final decision

6. We will not investigate this complaint because the Council is re-considering the application.

Back to top

Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman