Complaints around windows are resulting in repeat and “inexcusable” failures, according to the Housing Ombudsman.
The Ombudsman has published its latest severe maladministration report and laid out concerns around window repairs despite flagging these with housing associations a year ago.
In its report, the Ombudsman details how this has led to failings to conduct risk assessments, delays in repairs and poor communication.
The Ombudsman has cited one case where a mother was unable to close windows for three years despite worries for her children.
In another, a child’s bedroom was boarded up for four years.
Elsewhere, cases of children unable to do schoolwork due to excess cold and burglaries were cited with repairs unresolved for up to two years.
“Multiple times we see risk assessments not conducted, or surveys repeated without expert advice acted upon,” said Richard Blakeway, Housing Ombudsman.
“We also see poor contractor coordination or oversight and excessive delays combined with a lack of communication.”
Richard pointed to the reformed Decent Homes Standard as a welcome move towards better outcomes around windows, but argued more needs to be done.
“We should not need a new standard to see that leaving a child with a boarded-up bedroom window for several years is inexcusable,” added Richard.
