The Scottish Housing Regulator is looking for feedback on its early ideas for a new appeals process.

It has published a discussion paper and is seeking views by 2 October.

The discussion paper is its first step in developing the appeals process. The regulator will use the feedback to inform a detailed proposal which it will consult on later this year.

Kay Blair, the regulator’s chair, said: “We are committed to working openly and constructively so that we can deliver an effective appeals process. The ideas in our paper would widen the existing opportunities to challenge our decisions.

“This discussion paper gives landlords, tenants and others with an interest in our work an opportunity to contribute their views at an early stage, ahead of formal consultation. I’d encourage people to discuss their ideas with us.”

The suggestions in the discussion paper could lead to significant changes to how those affected by the Regulator’s decisions can challenge them. The paper sets out principles that could underpin the appeals process, potential grounds and decisions open to appeal, and ideas for who might consider an appeal. Alongside appeals, the paper suggests putting on a firmer footing the principle that those affected directly by a wider range of regulatory decisions can seek a more informal, quick review. It also explains how reviews and appeals could operate alongside the Regulator’s existing complaints process.

During the initial discussion phase the regulator will meet with representatives from the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations, Glasgow West of Scotland Forum of Housing Associations and the Association of Local Authority Chief Housing Officers to discuss its ideas. It will also meet members of the Regional Networks of Registered Tenant Organisations and discuss its ideas with lenders.

The discussion paper is now available here.

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