A council located in south-west London has taken over a landlord’s properties for the long term due to improper licensing.
Merton Council has assumed control of a portfolio consisting of 18 properties that were rented out as houses of multiple occupancy (HMO), as the owner “repeatedly neglected to ensure they were safe and suitable for residents.”
The local authority will manage these properties for a duration of five years, while the landlord, whose identity has not been disclosed, will still be responsible for the mortgage payments.
The council indicated that it cannot provide further details on the matter because of ongoing legal proceedings, the specifics of which have not been revealed.
Merton Council intervened in the management of the HMOs in August 2024 after tenants raised concerns about unaddressed repairs and management problems.
Initially, the council was granted a one-year Interim Management Order to temporarily take control of the properties. Throughout this period, several notices were sent to the landlord, which went “unanswered for months.”
Subsequently, the council issued a Final Management Order, a legal mandate that strips the landlord of management rights and income while they retain ownership.
Local authorities are authorized to implement such legal orders as per the Housing Act 2004.
Merton Council stated that the rental income generated from the properties it now oversees will be reinvested in the maintenance of the buildings and to ensure tenant safety.
Andrew Judge, the cabinet member responsible for housing and sustainable development within the council, remarked that the decision to take long-term control of the properties sends a strong message to irresponsible landlords.
He stated: “We are dedicated to improving living conditions for all, and we will take action against landlords who fail to meet their legal responsibilities to tenants.
“Everyone is entitled to live in adequate housing. While there are many responsible landlords in Merton, a few are neglecting their duties to provide safe and appropriate homes, especially for those in vulnerable situations.”
