A rogue landlord who persistently failed to license several rented properties has had them seized by Merton Council in one of the first actions of its kind in the country.

The zealous council took temporary control of the homes and has directed tenants’ rental income into managing them, while the landlord remains responsible for paying the mortgages.

All private rented properties in Figges Marsh (main image), Graveney, Longthornton and Pollards Hill wards must be licensed under the London borough’s selective scheme which was introduced last year.

Complaint

Council officers inspected the homes following a complaint from tenants and issued several notices to the landlord, who then ignored the orders for months.

After deciding there was no reasonable prospect of the private tenancies being licensed soon, the council made an interim management order to take control of the homes.

Councillor Andrew Judge (pictured), cabinet member for housing and sustainable development, says the council is committed to improving housing conditions in the private rented sector.

“While many landlords operate within guidelines, there are also others who do not, often taking advantage of some of the most vulnerable members of our community,” he adds. “This leads to issues affecting health and safety, the wider community, as well as the environment.

“This action sends a clear message to landlords - if you do not license your property, or act in such a way that the property cannot be licensed, the council can and will use its powers to take over the running of it.”