Latest PICA-Service cases get postponed and settled

The first hearing, due on the 8 April, was cancelled after the tenant withdrew their complaint as a result of their grievance being settled by the pubco involved.

The second hearing, due on the 9 April, was postponed after the complainant sustained an injury that required hospital treatment – including an operation – which would have prevented them from attending the hearing in person.

The complainant was initially prepared for the hearing to go ahead without them but they have now accepted PICA-Service’s offer to defer so that they are able to attend any hearing, and can therefore both summarise their case and answer any questions.   

Bernard Brindley, chair of the PIRRS board, which is responsible for administering PICA-Service, said:  “This [the first case] provides further proof that PICA-Service is working.  It is clear to us that this system incentivises parties to settle ahead of any scheduled hearing, given the knowledge that PICA-Service is empowered to hear and deal with complaints in respect of alleged breaches of a code of practice – or contrary to the spirit of such codes.

 “Whilst we are not privy to any details of the settlement achieved in respect of the withdrawn complaint, we take it that the tenant involved is satisfied that the procedures have resulted in a satisfactory conclusion as far as they are concerned.”

With regard to the second case, Brindley added: “Ideally, both parties should always be present to ensure fairness and transparency, so it is right that this case has been deferred until such time when both sides can attend.”