Interim Housing Ombudsman appointed
Summary
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has appointed Andrea Keenoy as interim Housing Ombudsman from 1 August, with a permanent successor to be confirmed later. The announcement follows the end of Richard Blakeway’s second term and highlights the Ombudsman Service’s recent focus on complaint handling, systemic powers and issues such as damp and mould.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors working in social housing or advising on housing defects should note the continued emphasis on complaint handling and landlord performance. The Ombudsman’s role influences expectations around service standards, resident redress and the handling of issues that often intersect with survey findings.
Key points
- Andrea Keenoy will serve as interim Housing Ombudsman from 1 August.
- The government has not yet appointed a permanent Housing Ombudsman.
- Richard Blakeway’s term ends on 31 July 2026 after major changes to the service.
- The Ombudsman Service has introduced a Complaint Handling Code and new systemic powers.
- Damp and mould and complaint consistency remain key themes for landlords.
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