Michael Gove issues third letter exposing housing maladministration in Lambeth

Cllr Donna Harris, Leader of Lambeth’s Lib Dem Opposition, was copied into another scathing letter from Michael Gove, his third regarding Lambeth since March 2023, raising fresh fears for residents. 

When the resident first complained about a leak in her home, MTVH took a staggering 20 months to issue a response. 

The resident was then left with an infestation of mice nesting in her furniture that caused damage to items belonging to her late daughter. A year later, MTVH had still failed to complete the necessary work. The delays caused the resident significant distress, anxiety, and inconvenience. 

The case is symptomatic of persistent problems in Lambeth following previous findings of severe maladministration. In his letter to MTVH, the Secretary of State said, “Given your repeated failings, I remain very concerned – you must improve the quality of service you deliver.” 

The Housing Ombudsman has determined 19 cases of severe maladministration by Lambeth Council alone since April 2022. These figures do not take into account maladministration attributed to housing associations like Metropolitan Thames Valley. 

Commenting, Cllr Donna Harris, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Opposition in Lambeth, said: 

“I cannot understand how any housing provider could let a mother go through this torture – it is absolutely shocking. Sadly, these cases of severe maladministration are just the tip of the iceberg. 

“Hundreds more Lambeth residents have had complaints met by their landlord slamming the door in their face. In their panic, they are turning to ambulance-chaser solicitors. 

“Residents need to know their rights and must be told to go through the Housing Ombudsman first. It is completely free, but once lawyers are involved the Ombudsman is unable to consider a case.”