A Labour council in London has issued a statement appearing to celebrate its role cracking down on landlords.

The statement from Brent council reminds landlords that almost all of them, whatever type of property they own, must have a licence if the accommodation is within the council boundary. 

The only ward that the regime does not apply to is Wembley Park where the council says:: “The number of private rentals with poor housing conditions is below the critical threshold.”

A council spokesperson says: “We’re encouraging private landlords with properties in Brent to make their application today to ensure that they comply with the law. This scheme will bring about positive living standard improvements for private renters who make up half of all Brent residents. It will also give landlords and agents complete clarity on their responsibilities regarding property management and safety.”

The statement goes on to say that In 2023, Brent council issued its first banning order against a landlord, preventing him from letting houses in England for five years. Brent has also licenced more HMOs than any other London borough and, in its words, “has one of the most proactive enforcement teams in the capital.”