Gary L

Review of Octavia Housing

Think twice before approaching this housing associ...

Think twice before approaching this housing association. My neighbours and I have all grown to literally hate this organisation, with some even leaving our development because they couldn't take it anymore. I have more stories about what we've had to endure than Roald Dahl's "Tales of the Unexpected" series.

They are exceptionally slow to address issues (several months for replies is not unusual). Their explanations on queries is often vague and inconsistent (to the degree where I have received answers that contradict each other). The staff turnover is shocking (always a sure sign of somewhere bad to work). And whilst jumping up and down and making merry hell might get you a visit to discuss your concerns, ultimately the vast majority of issues go unresolved.

I have lever arch files full of bills, adjustments (i.e. demands for extra money) because they messed something up, or other such correspondence. It's now at the point where I get a horrible feeling in the pit of my stomach whenever I see an envelope with Octavia's logo on the front. This is because it feels like Octavia will will again be seeking more money - the only question I ask before opening one of their letters is "how much do they want this time?".

I can't overstate how stressful my neighbours and I find dealing with Octavia to be, along with living in one of their properties. And whilst many staff are very polite, there's only so far that nice individuals can get you before an organisation's structures and processes once again start to frustrate you.