Royal Greenwich's Efforts To Tackle Rogue Landlords Gets Funding Boost

by our RBG Correspondent | Woolwich

The Royal Borough of Greenwich has received £175,000 to boost its ongoing efforts to tackle rogue landlords operating in the borough.

The funding is part of a £5 million government pot shared among 46 local authorities with Royal Greenwich awarded the sixth highest amount of money.

It will be used to take on irresponsible landlords that force tenants to live in squalid and dangerous properties, making their lives a misery.

The funding means the council can carry out more raids, increase property inspections, issue a greater number of statutory notices, survey more streets and demolish sheds and prohibited buildings.

It will also help the council to root out more ‘beds in sheds’ – where buildings are often rented to vulnerable people and migrants by landlords who charge them extortionate rents to live in cramped conditions.

It’s all part of the royal borough’s ongoing work to protect the interests of residents in private accommodation.

Last month it was successful in taking legal action against the Ordnance Arms in Woolwich, where officers in the council’s private rented sector team raised concerns about poor safety and living standards in a youth hostel.

Councillor Jackie Smith, Royal Borough of Greenwich cabinet member for community safety & environment, said:: “I am delighted that the council has secured this £175,000 boost. We already have an excellent record on taking on rogue landlords and supporting residents affected by their actions."

“The vast majority of landlords act responsibly and within the law. However we will always act to protect residents by taking strong actions against the small number who act exploitatively and force their tenants to live in overcrowded and squalid accommodation. This funding will help the council in further ensuring that private tenants are protected from any unscrupulous behaviour they might encounter when renting a home.”

If you are concerned that a private property in Royal Greenwich may be overcrowded or operating illegally, you can contact the council on 020 8921 8157 or email: residentialservices@royalgreenwich.gov.uk.