London’s Labour Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan is to spend some £400,000 of public cash on organisations “to help tenants understand their rights … and secure justice.”

Most of the cash in Khan’s ‘Renters Rights Enforcement Fund’ will go to two organisations providing free advice and support to renters across London. 

A statement from the Mayor’s office says: “Whether someone is facing dangerous housing conditions, an unfair rent increase or a landlord who refuses to follow the law, the funding will help ensure they have somewhere to turn.”

The rest of the funding will help train council enforcement officers in different boroughs.

The statement continues: “Around 2.7m Londoners rent privately. While many landlords treat their tenants correctly, too many renters are still living in damp, unsafe or poorly maintained homes, paying overly high rents or worrying that speaking up could put their tenancy at risk. 

“The new [Renters Rights] law changes that, and this funding will help make sure Londoners benefit.” 

Khan himself comments: “I will always stand up for London’s renters who deserve to feel secure in their homes and confident that they can challenge rogue landlords when their rights are ignored.

“The Renters Rights Act is a game changer for tenants. It gives millions of renters’ stronger rights and greater security. But those rights will only make a difference if people know about them, can use them and have somewhere to go for help.

“That’s why I’m investing in organisations that will stand alongside renters, helping them challenge rogue landlords and get justice when their rights are ignored. At the same time, we’re making sure councils have the training they need to enforce the new law so that bad landlords face the consequences of breaking the rules. 

“Every Londoner deserves a safe, secure and decent home, and this investment will help ensure these new rights for renters are more than words on paper, as we build a safer, fairer London for everyone.”