Part 5: Other provisions about safety standards, etc. New Homes Ombudsman scheme Section 136: Establishment of the New Homes Ombudsman scheme Background
This is a new provision. There is no previous provision for owners of new build homes specifically to complain to an ombudsman or redress scheme. Redress schemes already exist in relation to management, lettings and estate agency work in the private residential sector, and for social housing residents.
Example
The Secretary of State may make arrangements with a third party to establish a scheme and maintain it by way of a government procurement. There may already be a voluntary scheme in place that could bid, alongside other potential providers.
It is anticipated that an independent board incorporating the housebuilding industry, consumer groups and others will bring forward arrangements to set up such a voluntary scheme prior to Royal Assent.
Where no suitable providers of a scheme come forward, the Government may establish a scheme itself and ask someone else to maintain the scheme. If necessary, the Government could make a loan to establish a scheme which could be recouped once fees have been received under the scheme.
Before making arrangements for the scheme the Secretary of State will consult with the Scottish and Welsh Ministers, and the relevant Northern Ireland department, and intends to work with the devolved administrations as the policy is developed.