Following the introduction of new HMO licences in Hackney, east London, the local council has taken legal action against four landlords for breaching conditions of the new HMO licences.

The town hall brought in a policy in October requiring owners of HMO’s in the borough to get a licence.

According to Hackney Council, there are about  4,000 HMOs in the borough that require a licence.

The recently introduced HMO licensing scheme is part of the Better Renting campaign that targets unscrupulous landlords, and some of the serious cases have now led to legal action. 

A selective licensing scheme was also introduced for landlords renting out any property in what has been identified as the most problematic areas locally, including, Brownswood, Cazenove and Stoke Newington wards. 

Cllr Sem Moema, mayoral advisor for private renting and housing affordability, commented: “Property licensing is a key part of our crackdown on rogue landlords, and means renters who are most likely to experience hazards and poor treatment can finally get the protection they deserve.”