Overview
The complainant (Ms C) raised a complaint on behalf of her elderly father (Mr A) that the Highland Council (the Council) had failed over a considerable period of time to take appropriate action to require the owner (Mr B) of the property adjoining Mr A's house to rectify problems with his building. Ms C claimed the lack of action was having an injurious effect on Mr A's health and threatened the fabric of his house.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that the Council had failed over a considerable period of time to take appropriate action to require Mr B, the owner of the property adjoining Mr A's house, to rectify problems with his building (no finding).
Redress and recommendation
The Ombudsman recommends that the Council continue to monitor closely the property currently owned by Mr B and its effect on Mr A's property, particularly should the current planning consent and building warrant expire.