Rental Mediation Service pilot poorly utilised
The pilot, which enabled tenants and landlords to access a free independent mediation service during the landlord possession process, sees a mere 22 referrals out of an estimated 3,000 potential cases between February to October 2021.
Ombudsman Service launches with Code for housing developers
Barratt, Taylor Wimpey, Redrow and Bellway are among 100 firms signed up to a new Code of Practice, following the launch of a new Ombudsman Service. The Code has been developed in response to growing pressure surrounding complaints from owners of new build housing that issues fail to be resolved effectively.
Streamlining dispute resolution to improve access to justice
The Ministry of Justice has published the responses to a call for evidence on dispute resolution in England and Wales that will feed into the UK Government’s developing work on how to utilise the processes to deliver swifter, more cost-effective and consensual access to justice.
Regulation of Jersey estate agents getting closer
The Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel of the States of Jersey Assembly (the parliament of Jersey) has published a report recommending the introduction of regulation of estate agents.
Seven agents expelled from The Property Ombudsman
As per the strict processes put in place by The Property Ombudsman (TPO), the agents were referred to the TPO’s independent Compliance Committee, which ruled they should be expelled with most failing to pay compensatory rewards.
Ensure compliance with new build homes Consumer Code
Agents have a responsibility to provide clear, accurate information to buyers of new-build homes under the Consumer Code for Home Builders, which was developed by homebuilders, construction industry bodies, and Government, to provide new homeowners with confidence when choosing a property.
Rebecca Marsh announced as new Property Ombudsman
From October 2020, Rebecca Marsh will take up the role of The Property Ombudsman, taking over from Katrine Sporle CBE, whose five-year contract comes to an end on 31 October.
TPO say agents should not ignore issues during Coronavirus
The Property Ombudsman (TPO) has issued guidelines on how businesses should handle issues that arise during the restrictions around Coronavirus and reminds agents that redress scheme membership must continue.
Housing Secretary announces New Homes Ombudsman
Homebuyers who are faced with shoddy building work in their new homes will be protected by a new, independent Ombudsman, Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has confirmed.
The Property Ombusdman — positive partnerships and looking to the future
The Property Ombudsman has always played a critical role in raising the profile of the organisation and its work, improving its performance, impact and influence, and ensuring that it has the culture, partnerships, and resources in place to be sustainable over the long term.
Government plans housing reforms to make home buying fairer and more affordable
The Government’s housing proposals as outlined in the Queen's speech provide the means for the government to 'support people to realise the dream of homeownership', including measures to discount homes for first-time buyers, create a New Homes Ombudsman, reform the leasehold system, remodel shared ownership, and increase building safety.
Professionals and public warned over rogue agencies
Three agencies have been expelled from The Property Ombudsman (TPO) for failing to deliver on payments that were instructed by them.
TPO revises fees, charges more for agents who generate complaints
The Property Ombudsman (TPO) scheme’s fees will increase in January for the first time in six years. A fair usage policy will also be implemented, meaning those who generate the most complaints will pay more for their membership. Propertymark members will retain their membership discount.
The Property Ombudsman expels agents for failing to pass on rent
Lettings agents in Kent, Essex and North London have been expelled by The Property Ombudsman for failing to pay landlords what they are owed.
MSP progresses home-buyer protection bill
A final proposal for a member’s bill to improve protection for buyers of new-build homes has been lodged at the Scottish Parliament. Graham Simpson MSP submitted draft proposals in April for a bill establishing standards for the sale of new-build homes, and redress for purchasers who experience construction defects.
Agencies expelled from The Property Ombudsman
Shoreditch based estate agent Chase & Co UK Ltd, (trading as Chase & Co UK) and Isle of Dogs based estate agent, Property 24/7 have been expelled from The Property Ombudsman (TPO).