The Social Housing Ombudsman (Wales) Regulations 2005

Explanatory Note

(This note is not part of the Regulations)

Section 228 of the Housing Act 2004 inserts section 51B (Investigation of complaints) into the Housing Act 1996 (“the 1996 Act”). These Regulations are made under section 51B of the 1996 Act and make provision in relation to investigation by the Social Housing Ombudsman for Wales (“SHOW”) of complaints made against social landlords in Wales as defined in section 51C(1) of the 1996 Act. By virtue of section 51A (Social Housing Ombudsman for Wales) of the 1996 Act the person who is the Local Commissioner for Wales is also SHOW.

Regulation 3 sets out the matters about which complaints may be made. Regulation 4 sets out the grounds on which a matter may be excluded from investigation. Regulation 5 specifies persons who may make a complaint. Regulation 6 sets out the power of SHOW to investigate a complaint. The procedure to be followed in the conduct of investigations is dealt with in regulation 7. Regulation 8 requires SHOW to make a written determination in respect of a complaint. Regulation 9 includes provision for SHOW to refer a complaint to an appropriate alternative method of resolution. Regulation 10 deals with consultation and co-operation with other persons. Regulation 11 sets out the manner in which determinations and special reports are to be communicated and published.