Lewisham Council has launched an intelligence-led taskforce to improve standards in the private rented sector. The new Rogue Landlords Taskforce will focus on landlords associated with poor housing conditions, unlicensed properties, and waste issues.
Councillor Natalie Thomas, cabinet member for safer homes, homelessness and housing services, stated that improving conditions for renters in Lewisham is a top priority. She added that while most landlords aim to comply, many tenants are living in properties with mould, pests, or safety concerns due to landlords failing their legal responsibilities.
The taskforce will prioritise areas where data suggests a higher likelihood of non-compliance, including locations with suspected unlicensed properties or a history of enforcement action. Enforcement actions could include civil penalty notices and prosecution.
Lewisham Council reports issuing 153 enforcement notices, close to the 155 issued in the entire previous year. Fines totalling £160,875 have been issued since April, which is more than double the amount from the previous 12 months. The council anticipates further increases in enforcement activity with the introduction of the new taskforce.