A council in Croydon is facing criticism from the local opposition party after a recent report revealed a significant increase in compensation payouts to tenants. The Housing Ombudsman’s annual report showed that the Conservative-run council paid out £18,000 in compensation to tenants for housing issues between 2023 and 2024, a tenfold increase from the previous year’s £1,800 payout.
According to the report, Croydon council had a maladministration rate of 81 percent, up from 67 percent in the previous year. This high rate of maladministration has raised concerns about the council’s handling of tenant complaints and housing issues.
In response to these findings, Cllr Claire Bonham, a Liberal Democrat representing Crystal Palace & Upper Norwood, called on Croydon Mayor Jason Perry to apologize to tenants for the council’s “poor performance.” She emphasized that cases requiring compensation should be rare occurrences and expressed her disappointment in the council’s lack of timely and consistent responses to tenant concerns.
This is not the first time Croydon council has come under scrutiny for its treatment of tenants. In 2021, an independent report highlighted poor management and staffing issues that put the health of tenants at risk in the Regina Road estate. Cllr Bonham pointed out that these incidents indicate ongoing failures by the council to prioritize the well-being of its tenants.
The council has been urged to make significant improvements in its handling of tenant complaints and housing issues. Despite these calls for change, Croydon council has yet to provide a comment on the matter.
It is crucial for local authorities to prioritize the needs and safety of their tenants. Effective communication, timely responses, and proper maintenance of housing facilities are essential to ensuring that tenants feel supported and protected in their homes. By addressing these issues and making necessary improvements, councils can create a more positive and secure living environment for all residents.
