Council 'tough' on rogue landlords

Landlords have been warned that they need to make sure their properties meet health and safety regulations.

Southend Council has called for more investigations into landlords who allow tenants to live in poor conditions.

This follows the case of a landlord in the region found to be renting out bedsits that were unfit to house people.

Mark Flewitt, councillor for housing and social services, told the Echo that all parties will benefit from stopping rogue landlords.

He said: "I do not stereotype all the landlords in Southend as bad and I know there are many safe and positive landlord and tenant relationships.

"I actively encourage investigations against those who are reported as managing unsafe or improper houses in multiple occupations or indeed any other type of housing."

The council is appealing to the government to make it compulsory for all landlords to get licenses from local authorities to ensure they meet safety standards.

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