Christopher Hamer stands down as the Property Ombudsman

The Property Ombudsman (TPO) scheme offers an independent and impartial dispute resolution service to consumers who have been unable to resolve their disputes with a registered agent. The scheme was established in 1990. The Ombudsman can provide redress to place the consumer back in the position they were before the complaint arose, achieving a full and final settlement of the dispute and all claims made by either party.

Where appropriate, the Ombudsman can make compensatory awards in individual cases up to a maximum of £25,000 for actual and quantifiable loss and/or for aggravation, distress and/or inconvenience caused by the actions of a registered agent.

The independent TPO Council together with the TPO Board Chairman, Bill McClintock, have began the search to fill the position. Christopher will however remain as Ombudsman for the next few months where he will continue to generally represent the scheme. He will be handing over to his successor on 30th November.

Christopher Hamer said: “I have been in the post for many years, have enjoyed it immensely and found working with all the various stakeholder organisations and individuals most rewarding. I don’t have any particular plans at this stage post 30th November but I do hope that in some way I will be able to contribute to developments in the property sector. I hope the next Property Ombudsman finds it as enjoyable and rewarding as I did and I would like to wish them the best of luck.”

Bill McClintock said: “Christopher has been a highly effective Ombudman during a time when the scheme has expanded enormously. Both those working with him and in the industry will miss him greatly.”