Summary: We cannot investigate Mr X’s complaint about scaffolding erected at a neighbouring property by the Council. This is because we have no remit to investigate complaints in connection with the Council’s role as a landlord of social housing.

The complaint

1. In summary, Mr X complains about the Council’s failure to remove scaffolding at a neighbouring property. Mr X says that while the scaffolding has never been used, it is causing significant disruption to his phone and internet services.

Back to top

The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. The Local Government Act 1974 sets out our powers but also imposes restrictions on what we can investigate.
3. 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)

Back to top

How I considered this complaint

Assessment

4. The Council’s actions Mr X complains about relate to its management of social housing so we cannot investigate.

Back to top

Final decision

5. I cannot investigate this complaint as it relates to the Council’s management of its social housing.

Investigator’s decision on behalf of the Ombudsman

Back to top

Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman