A London council is boasting that it’s clamping down even more on letting agents and landlords who fail to meet legal standards, and says it’s already stung rogue operators for £180,000.
Over the past six months, Hounslow council has issued fines totalling more than £180,000 to landlords and letting agencies for breaches of property standards, with the average fine reaching £14,000. A statement says: “As part of this ongoing campaign, Hounslow council will publicly name and shame those who continue to flout legal requirements.”
The authority’s latest enforcement campaign targets unlicensed HMOs, poor property conditions, and illegal rentals. Council enforcement officers are conducting what they call “rigorous inspections and investigations” to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, licensing requirements, and the correct tenancy agreements.
A spokesperson adds: “We stand firmly with tenants and communities, supporting people’s right to live in a secure, well-maintained homes.” He adds that while most agents and landlords provide safe and decent housing, those who do otherwise will not be tolerated.
Where non-compliance is found “we will act decisively, issuing the strongest penalties available whenever possible.”
Residents are urged to report any suspicious landlord activity or substandard housing conditions to the council.
