Failures Within HB Service

Investigation finds numerous and severe administrative failings within the Housing Benefit service of a Welsh Council.

Court Rules on Action to Tackle Fuel Poverty Case

The High Court dismissed a legal bid by campaigners to force the Government to take more action to tackle fuel poverty.

Resolving Housing Disputes

A new Dispute Resolution Toolkit has been jointly published by the Housing Ombudsman Service to assist dealing with conflict in social housing.

LA Powers & Duties in Housing

A new report lists the extensive powers available to local housing authorities to address housing conditions and housing need.

Home Extension Planning Rules Relaxed

New planning regulations will mean that the majority of homeowners will no longer need to get planning permission when extending their existing homes.

Measures to Counter Mortgage Arrears

Towards the end of the quarter, the Government announced moves to help people struggling to pay their mortgage avoid losing their home.

New Era for Private Sector

As the third and final part in its series on housing law reform, the Law Commission announced its proposals for better regulation of the private rented sector.

Harassment and Fear in Sheltered Housing

Council's failures meant that complainants suffered "harassment and fear whilst living in what should have been a supportive environment".

Site Project Poorly Managed

There were fundamental errors from the outset in a project to refurbish an approved gypsy and traveller site, finds Local Government Ombudsman, Jerry White.

Disabled Tenant Unable to Open Door

A council failed to consider the needs of disabled people when it fitted a new heavy front entrance door to a block of flats.