WARNING: SOLICITORS ILLEGALLY CANVASSING ONGO TENANTS
FALSE REPRESENTATION, INTIMIDATION AND LACK OF INFORMATION
We have received several reports of solicitor firms illegally canvassing tenants in the Scunthorpe area, to make a claim against Ongo for repairs they’ve received.
Some firms have falsely represented themselves as Ongo tenants and are alleged to have used intimidating behaviour, to pressure tenants into signing contracts, without explaining the full implications of doing so.
We understand that it can be frustrating if your repair hasn’t been completed right first time and the temptation of receiving compensation can be tempting. However, please take the time to understand the risk of this.
IMPLICATIONS TO BE AWARE OF
Made to pay when your case doesn’t win – Despite claiming to be ‘No Win No Fee’, it has been reported that one tenant was billed a large sum from the solicitor firm to cover the costs.
No clear fees – Unfortunately some solicitors aren’t advising what percentage they take if the case is successful. This can be significantly high, making it unbeneficial.
Process not made clear – The process, timescales, cost, what this involves and what you’ll need to do isn’t made clear. If you’re unhappy with your repair but have not followed the correct process, including reporting them and going through the complaints process, but take the case to court anyway, this is all taken into account.
OUR ADVICE
If you are unhappy with the way a repair has been dealt with, please follow the correct process of letting us know, and if necessary, going through the complaints process.
Complaints and compensation: To make a complaint, an application for compensation, or to find out more about this, visit here.
Repairs service: To find out more about our repairs and maintenance service, how to raise a repairs, what you can expect as a tenant and more, visit here.
Keeping yourself safe: When someone visits your home, please always ask for I.D. Our colleagues expect and welcome this, so don’t be afraid to ask. If you’re ever in doubt, please feel free to contact our Customer Experience Team on 01724 279900, where they will be happy to confirm the details for you.
Looking out for your neighbours: Please help to share awareness of this issue and look out for those living in your neighbourhood who may be unaware or vulnerable.