Hebridean Housing Partnership complaints

HHP tenants hit out at alleged excessive and unfair bills 1/9/14

A number of people claiming they have been unfairly billed by social housing body, Hebridean Housing Partnership (HHP) have set up a Facebook campaign.

Nearly 120 people have joined in the six days since the group launched.

The webpage’s remit centres on allegations that HHP - which runs the former council houses in the Western Isles - excessively and unfairly charge outgoing tenants for repairs to their houses.

Organiser Susan Thomas maintained she “received a whooping great bill” from HHP after moving out of her rented accommodation.

In addition, her daughter faced similar issues despite fixing what she was asked, it is claimed.

Ms Thomas added: “But then after she was moved she got a bill for refitting the sink (which she never moved). She has also been charged for new doors - the doors when she left were the same doors as when she moved in.”

She stated: HHP is a con - billing people after they have moved. With totally unfair amounts, and without good reason.”

“HHP should be there for the people - not working against them.

“I no longer live in one of their houses so I can stand up to them. I have seen what they do to people and their families - putting people in debt unfairly, ignoring the homes in need of work and people in need of being moved.”

Angus Lamont, HHP chief executive stated: “We would only recharge people for costs where we believe that houses have been left in an unacceptable condition either due to neglect, wilful damage or being left in a dirty condition.”

Mr Lamont said there was no charge for any damage due to “fair and wear tear.”

He highlighted that under 20% of the 200 outgoing tenants per year are charged for any costs.

HHP also gives people an opportunity to rectify any damage before they leave.

► Housing body challenges accusations of “unfair charges”

► Unhappy tenants vent anger on social media