A Labour MP, who six years ago vowed to ‘take action against’ unscrupulous landlords, is now confronted with claims of being a rogue landlord himself.
Jas Athwal secured his position as MP for Ilford South during the 2024 General Election last month, after previously serving as the leader of Redbridge Council for ten years.
This London MP has now become the largest landlord in the House of Commons, owning 15 rental apartments.
However, an investigation by the BBC uncovered that one building containing seven flats owned by Athwal suffered from ant infestations and significant black mold.
One tenant remarked that the insects are ‘all over my child’s body and their clothing’, while another remarked that their bathroom ceiling ‘would be entirely black’ if they didn’t clean the hazardous mold every few weeks.
Upon visiting the flats, which are situated above an unoccupied shop, the BBC observed unsanitary communal areas, inoperative light fixtures, fire alarms dislodged from the ceiling, and a washing machine abandoned near a staircase.
He also acknowledged that his properties currently lack the proper licenses required, despite his previous efforts to enforce licensing while serving as Redbridge Council leader.
He stated to the BBC: ‘I believed that all licenses for my properties were current, but I have recently come across an email indicating that the licenses are set to expire. I am actively working on renewing all licenses.’
A spokesperson from Redbridge Council informed The Guardian: ‘We are aware of the issues regarding these properties. In every instance, we expect that properties requiring a license will apply for one.
‘Where licenses are absent, we will issue notices and initiate enforcement actions.
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‘It is crucial for all landlords to secure their licenses.
‘This is essential for upholding the standards of our selective licensing program as well as ensuring the safety and welfare of residents in Redbridge.’
In 2018, Athwal tweeted a link to an article detailing a local landlord facing fines levied by the council, commenting: ‘Rogue landlords, your time is coming.’
Nevertheless, one tenant reported facing threats of eviction from the letting agency if they lodged complaints concerning their flat or sought to claim benefits.
Athwal mentioned that he avoids accepting tenants who rely on housing benefits to prevent any ‘conflicts of interest’ arising from his prior position as council leader.
Following the emergence of these allegations, he asserted that he had not been informed of tenant grievances as the properties are handled by an agency.
Athwal assured that repairs and maintenance would be conducted ‘promptly’, expressing: ‘I take pride in being a responsible landlord, and no tenant has ever faced eviction.’
He further stated his intention to evaluate the property management company and expressed being ‘deeply regretful’ that tenants felt neglected.
The Labour party’s general election manifesto pledged to ‘revolutionize’ the private renting experience and prevent tenants from being ‘exploited and subjected to discrimination.
Metro has reached out to Athwal, the Labour Party, and Redbridge Council for their comments on this matter.
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