Summary
Complaints about poor living conditions in social housing in England have risen significantly, reaching more than five times the number recorded five years ago. The Housing Ombudsman warns that ongoing issues like slow repairs, safety problems, and lack of tenant power could lead to widespread dissatisfaction unless improvements are made.
Key Facts
- Complaints in social housing are now five times higher than five years ago, with 6,380 complaints investigated up to March 2025.
- Main issues include asbestos, electrical and fire safety problems, pest control, leaks, damp, and mould.
- Repairs and maintenance account for nearly half of the complaints.
- Approximately 1.5 million children lived in substandard homes in 2023, with 19% in social housing.
- The Housing Ombudsman calls for a major overhaul of the system, including better funding and tenant representation.
- A proposed "national tenant body" aims to improve tenant input and landlord accountability.
- Historic underfunding and current funding uncertainties contribute to the problem.
- Past incidents like the Grenfell Tower fire highlight urgent housing concerns.
