Rogue landlords who create portfolios of overcrowded, unregulated and unsafe properties – including the infamous beds in sheds – now face a more coordinated investigation of their crimes in London.

The London councils in Hounslow, Hillingdon and Ealing, working with the local authority in Slough and backed with government money, are working together to untangle the webs of family and company-owned properties used by so-called portfolio criminal landlords. 

The new approach will target the individuals who ultimately control the networks of properties, rather than dealing with properties on an individual basis. A statement from the authorities says these properties can be dangerous and affected by issues including unsanitary conditions and unregulated fire hazards.

By focusing on those who control a network of properties, the London councils aim to potentially dismantle their portfolios and deter others from breaking the law.

Hounslow council leader Steve Curran says: “We’ve seen how complex and underhand these individuals can be in disguising their holdings – working with our partners we can bring to light the full extent of their offences and prosecute them. We hope other councils can learn from our approach.”