News

Merton Council take over control of landlord’s rented property portfolio

Sunday, September 14th, 2025 - Merton Council

In one of the first actions of its kind in the country, Merton Council has taken long term control of eighteen private rented homes. The action follows the landlord’s persistent failure to comply with their licensing responsibilities.

In August 2024, Merton Council served one-year Interim Management Orders to take temporary control of the properties following complaints by the tenants about outstanding repair and management issues.

Council officers issued several notices to the landlord under the council’s selective licensing scheme but the orders were ignored for months. Council officers then followed up with inspections of all the properties.

With still no reasonable prospect of the rented homes being licensed, the council has now made a Final Management Order to take control of the properties for up to five years.

The tenants’ rent will be paid directly to Merton Council and used to ensure the properties are managed and maintained to the required standard. Whilst the owner will receive no rent, they will remain responsible for paying the mortgage.

Councillor Andrew Judge, Merton’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Sustainable Development, said:

“This sends a clear message to rogue landlords: we’re committed to raising the standard of living for everyone, and we will clamp down on landlords who are not meeting their legal obligations to their tenants.

“Everyone deserves to live in decent housing, and we know there are many good landlords in Merton, but a handful are flouting their responsibilities to provide safe and suitable homes for tenants, particularly those in vulnerable situations.”

Our free guide containing more information about property licensing and HMO planning restrictions in Merton is available here.