Local authorities have been reminded of their duties to investigate problems in private rented accommodation after concerns were raised about Worcester City Council’s complaint handling.
The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO) issued the reminder after a woman contacted the watchdog with concerns about damp and mould, and a faulty heating system.
The woman had to move out for seven months while remedial work was carried out.
The Ombudsman found that the council failed to take formal action against the woman’s landlord when the hazards were discovered.
Paul Najsarek, Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman, said: ‘For many people in rented accommodation, it’s often not a simple question of just moving to a better place – in many areas there is a lack of suitable, affordable alternatives. But equally people should not have to move out of their homes for prolonged periods to ensure that their homes meet the minimum standards of safety.’
A spokesperson for Worcester City Council said: ‘We accept the findings of the Ombudsman and have apologised unreservedly to the complainant. We are sorry that our actions in this instance fell short of our usual standards.’
