Housing Ombudsman Explained
Free help when your landlord won't listen
If your council or housing association landlord has ignored your complaints or failed to fix problems in your home, the Housing Ombudsman Service may be able to help. It's free, independent, and just for social housing tenants.
✅ What is the Housing Ombudsman?
The Housing Ombudsman is a government-backed organisation that helps resolve disputes between tenants and their social landlords (like your council or housing association).
They're not on anyone's "side" — they're here to look at things fairly and make sure landlords follow the rules.
What issues can they deal with?
You can go to the Housing Ombudsman if you've already complained to your landlord and:
Nothing has been done
The repairs were done poorly
You were treated unfairly or rudely
Your landlord didn't respond to your complaint properly
You've suffered because of delays, damage, or poor service
Important: They don't deal with private landlords or eviction notices — only complaints involving councils and housing associations.
What do I need to do first?
Make a complaint to your landlord
(in writing)
Wait up to 8 weeks
for them to resolve it or respond fully
Contact the Ombudsman
if they ignore you or don't fix the problem
What happens next?
You fill in a short online form or call them
The process starts with a simple application
They'll review your complaint and decide if they can help
The Ombudsman will assess your case
If they take your case, they may ask your landlord to pay compensation or carry out repairs
They can enforce their decisions
Their decision is legally binding – your landlord must follow it
You have legal protection
Important: You can contact them directly — you don't need a solicitor to use this service.
How to Contact the Housing Ombudsman
Need Additional Support?
While the Housing Ombudsman is a great free resource, Council Repair Claims can also help you understand your rights and connect you with a regulated solicitor if you need legal representation.