The Property Ombudsman received a record number of contacts in 2024, with more than 73,000 consumers seeking support with property-related issues – 27% more than the previous year.
Although the majority of enquiries came from renters, the ombudsman said there has been a growing demand for the service from leaseholders and a high level of enquiries and disputes related to seller issues.
A total of £797,031 was awarded to consumers who brought complaints related to sales, with the average award being £561. ‘Factors like uncertain market conditions and the end of the stamp duty holiday in April could drive further complaints in 2025’, interim property ombudsman Lesley Horton said.
She added:
“There is going to be continued change in the property sector, and we will work to support the success of any reforms, improve best practice in the sector and most importantly, help consumers to navigate and resolve their disputes.“
The Property Ombudsman scheme is the largest Government-approved redress scheme for the private property sector with 19,495 offices and branches across the UK, providing 39,404 services. The full annual review can be seen at www.tpos.co.uk
