Housing Ombudsman calls for focus on ‘early warning signs’ as it publishes latest hazards report
Summary
The Housing Ombudsman has published a learning report on severe maladministration cases involving housing hazards, ahead of phase 2 of Awaab’s Law later this year. It highlights recurring failures to identify and act on early warning signs, with examples including unsafe drinking water, lead paint exposure, loss of heating and hot water, overheating and excess cold.
Why it matters
The report reinforces the need for timely identification, escalation and remediation of hazards in residential properties, particularly where multiple defects or risks coexist. Surveyors may be involved in assessing conditions, advising on urgency, and supporting landlords’ compliance and risk management processes.
Key points
- Report focuses on hazards and the relationship between multiple hazards in one home.
- Examples include unsafe drinking water, lead paint, prolonged loss of heating and hot water, overheating and excess cold.
- Housing Ombudsman warns landlords may be missing early warning signs and repeating service failings.
- Issues cited include weak processes, poor escalation, limited quality assurance and lack of temporary move consideration.
- The report is published ahead of phase 2 of Awaab’s Law.
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