The mayor of London today launched a new public online database which will enable people to check ‘dodgy’ landlords and letting agents.
Sadiq Khan’s Rogue Landlord and Agent Checker — the first such database in the country — ‘names and shames’ landlords and lettings agents who have been successfully prosecuted or have faced civil enforcement action for housing offences.
The aim is to provide the capital’s renters with greater confidence by allowing them to check a prospective landlord or letting agent. It is also meant to deter the minority of landlords and letting agents who behave dishonestly.
The database also contains a tool for tenants to report landlords they suspect of unscrupulous practices.
Records from 10 London boroughs (Brent, Camden, Greenwich, Islington, Kingston, Newham, Southwark, Sutton, Waltham Forest, Westminster) and the London Fire Brigade have been published on the database.
A further eight boroughs (Barking and Dagenham, Croydon, Enfield, Hackney, Haringey, Lewisham, Redbridge and Tower Hamlets) have agreed to submit records in the coming weeks.
‘Many landlords and agents across London offer a great service – but sadly some don’t,’ said Mr Khan.
‘My new database is about empowering Londoners to make informed choices about where they rent, and sending rogue operators a clear message: you have nowhere to hide.’
