A landlord who persistently failed to license several rented properties has had the homes seized by Merton council in south London, in one of the first actions of its kind in the country.

The council has used special powers as part of a new scheme to take temporary control of the homes and direct the tenants’ rental income into ensuring the management of the property is to the standard it says it expect for tenants. The owner remains responsible for paying the mortgages. 

All private rented homes in four specific wards must now be licensed under the council’s selective licensing scheme. introduced last year.

This gives the council powers to tackle poor property conditions and antisocial behaviour in these areas, and it follows consultation with residents.

Councillor Andrew Judge, Merton council’s cabinet member for housing, says: “Everyone deserves to live in a safe and decent home and 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. 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, the council can and will use its powers to take over the running of it.”

Council officers inspected the homes following a complaint from the people who live there. Officers issued several notices to the homeowner, who ignored the orders for months.

Because there was no reasonable prospect of the private tenancies being licensed soon, the council was able to make an ‘Interim Management Order’ to take control of the properties.

Councillor Judge adds: “Merton council recognises the important role that private sector landlords have in the borough and has worked in partnership with private landlords for many years to meet housing needs.

“The council only takes such action where absolutely necessary and knows the vast majority of landlords provide a professional service, and safe and secure homes to residents.”