Housing Ombudsman vs PRS Landlord Ombudsman
Two different redress schemes for two different sectors.
2 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
The Housing Ombudsman handles complaints about social landlords. The Renters' Rights Act 2025 creates a new ombudsman scheme covering private landlords in England, which all private landlords will be required to join, giving tenants free redress without going to court.
Legal requirements
- Private landlord membership of the new ombudsman scheme will be mandatory once commenced.
- Failure to join can attract civil penalties and affect possession claims.
Practical guidance
- Put a written complaints procedure in place now — the ombudsman will expect you to have used it first.
This wiki entry is general information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.