News

Ombudsman Services has announced plans to withdraw from complaints handling in the property sector as it launches a major dialogue to create a single housing ombudsman.

OS will begin a managed withdrawal from the current schemes it operates for surveyors, managing agents, estate agents and letting agents by 6 August 2018.

Isobel Thomson, CEO, NALS, responding to the news, said:

“In light of the Government’s announcement to consult on a single housing ombudsman providing ease of access for property related consumer complaints, NALS understands the decision Ombudsman Services: Property (OS:P) has taken to withdraw from the current redress set up and look to the future.

“OS:P has performed well for NALS firms, providing an excellent service at the most cost effective rate of membership of any of the existing schemes. We look forward to engaging in discussions with them as they evolve their offering to suit a new consumer protection regime.

“Practical arrangements for NALS firms will follow from both OS:P and NALS.”