information for businesses covered by the ombudsman service
This section answers a number of frequently-asked questions (FAQs) about:
before we get involved
complaints-handling rules
where are the complaints-handling rules published?
The complaints-handling rules are published as part of the Financial Services Authority's Handbook – in the section called Dispute resolution: complaints.
These rules – sometimes referred to as the "DISP" rules – set out the procedures and requirements that businesses must follow when handling complaints from consumers.
The rules include requirements on:
- acknowledging and responding to complaints
- the time limits for dealing with complaints and
- record-keeping and reporting.
The rules also set out the jurisdiction and procedures for the Financial Ombudsman Service.