Brighton and Hove City Council

The complainant has requested information from Brighton and Hove City Council about reports of water leaks and window problems in a housing estate managed by the Council. The Council refused to comply with the request under section 12(1) of the Freedom of Information Act. The complainant subsequently contested the Council’s refusal. The Commissioner’s decision is that the Council has correctly applied the exclusion provided by section 12(1), but has failed to provide advice and assistance under section 16(1). The Commissioner requires the public authority to take the following steps to ensure compliance with the legislation: Provide the complainant with relevant advice and assistance as to what information can be provided within the appropriate limit.