Ombudsman to investigate NI Housing Executive

The Northern Ireland Housing Executive is to undergo an ombudsman investigation.

The Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman, Margaret Kelly, who made the announcement, described access to good quality housing as an “essential foundation”.

The Housing Executive (NIHE) is the largest social housing provider in Northern Ireland, responsible for 83,000 homes.

Ms Kelly said it is “critical” that those properties are appropriately maintained and the concerns of tenants responded to.

She said some groups require properties to be adapted to meet their needs and how this process is managed and delivered will also be considered in her investigation.

With the increasing use of temporary accommodation to meet the needs of those in housing crisis, the ombudsman investigation will also consider the standards used to ensure temporary accommodation are suitable.

Ms Kelly said the investigation will, in addition, consider the experience of making a complaint to the Housing Executive.

Her final report may make recommendations for improving social housing in Northern Ireland.