Investigation Finds Harrow Council at Fault Over Housing Delay
An investigation by the Local Government Ombudsman revealed that Harrow Council was responsible for significant delays in processing a mother’s housing register application after she reported severe issues in her private rented home, including damp, mould, and a mice infestation.
Health Concerns Ignored Amid Poor Housing Conditions
The mother, referred to as Miss X in the report, said the poor conditions were worsening health problems for her and her son. Despite these complaints, the council initially refused to grant them priority housing, awarding them a ‘Band D’ status, which signifies no priority.
Delays in Processing and Inspections
Miss X applied to join the council’s housing register in February 2023. However, it took until September for the council to refer her case to both a housing disrepair enforcement officer and a medical advisor. Following visits, the enforcement officer noted some repairs had been made to block mice entry, but Miss X remained dissatisfied. The council then requested further landlord repairs.
The medical advisor, however, concluded that the housing was not adversely affecting their health, leading the council to deny priority housing.
Eviction Notice Triggers Partial Priority Upgrade
In February 2024, Miss X received an eviction notice. This prompted the council to upgrade her to ‘Band C’ priority. Nevertheless, they upheld their decision that she did not meet the criteria for additional medical priority, stating they were working with the landlord to address the issues.
Interim Accommodation Offered After Further Inspection
A council visit in August 2024 led to an offer of interim accommodation under their homelessness relief duty, with plans to find more secure housing for Miss X.
Ombudsman’s Findings and Council’s Response
The Ombudsman found that Harrow Council’s “maladministration and service failure” caused unnecessary distress due to the uncertainty about her housing priority status. The report recommended that the council apologize to Miss X, pay her £200 compensation, and provide the outstanding Environmental Health report.
Harrow Council acknowledged the findings and apologized, stating:
“We recognise that our standards fell short of the high standards that residents should expect to receive. We have apologised to Miss X for the distress this has caused.”
They also promised to improve the efficiency and timeliness of their housing services.
Source: Harrow Online, April 2025
