Tenants urged to report rogue landlords

TENANTS across North Somerset are being encouraged to help improve housing standards in the private rented sector by reporting rogue landlords online.

A new reporting form is available on the council’s website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/roguelandlord which anyone can use to report concerns about the behaviour of a landlord or letting agent, or about a rented property.

Other concerns that can be reported include overcrowding, anti-social behaviour or illegal activities at a privately rented property. People can also report issues about poor letting practices such as no tenancy paperwork or poor responses to repair requests.

Reports can also be made about unlicensed houses of multiple occupation or HMO’s.

North Somerset Council executive member for housing Councillor Elfan Ap Rees said: “We know many landlords provide privately rented accommodation of a high quality. However, some landlords do very little to maintain and improve their properties.

“Poor housing conditions can impact on tenants’ health and wellbeing, and also affects the wider community.

“Tenants can sometimes be reluctant to complain because they’re afraid they might get evicted if they do. This new online form allows anyone from the local community to report their concerns and help us continue to improve property standards in the private rented sector.”