Private Renters in CamdenPrivate Renters in Camdenhttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=4878640472024-03-29T08:37:27Z2024-03-29T08:37:27ZWe Make Camden Citizens' GroupJanet Wadehttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=487864047&entryId=6041462462024-03-18T21:23:41Z2024-03-18T21:22:00Z<p>As part of our ambition for everyone living in Camden to have a
voice, we have developed the We Make Camden Citizens' Group. The group
currently has around 400 members, local residents from different
backgrounds and from every part of the borough, who are helping the
Council gain new insights on what is happening in Camden.</p>
<p>We would like to invite you to join this group.</p>
<p>Being part of the group means we will email you with information
about different opportunities to share your opinions, ideas and
experiences as a resident in the borough. This might mean completing a
survey, joining a focus group or being invited to attend public events
on various topics. It will be up to you how much or how little you
take part, and you can leave the group at any time. We offer
'recognition' (vouchers to say thank you for your time) for many activities.</p>
<p>If you are interested in joining the group, please complete
this <a
href="https://consultations.wearecamden.org/corporate-services/18872b02?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term="
target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">survey form</a>. </p>
<p>We are keen to encourage more people living in private rented
accommodation to join, to make sure the group represents all
experiences in Camden. This opportunity is open to anyone over the age
of 18 who lives in the borough of Camden, so if you know someone who
might be interested, please forward this survey to them.</p>
<p>If you would like any further information about the group, please
email <a href="mailto:participation@camden.gov.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">participation@camden.gov.uk</a></p>Janet Wade2024-03-18T21:22:00ZTackling Violence Against Women and GirlsJanet Wadehttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=487864047&entryId=6036993172024-03-18T21:35:25Z2024-03-15T17:18:00Z<p>We’re working on developing a new communications campaign to build
awareness of violence against women and girls. </p>
<p>Tackling violence against women and girls is one of the Council’s
main priorities and we are really keen to hear your views on our first
set of draft posters for this campaign.</p>
<p>We are planning several face to face focus groups in March and
April, taking place in one of our meeting rooms at 5 Pancras Square. </p>
<p>Food and refreshments will be provided.</p>
<p>If you are interested in taking part, please email <a
href="mailto:Simone.Enning@camden.gov.uk">Simone.Enning@camden.gov.uk</a>.
Your thoughts and ideas will help us produce an effective
campaign.<br /> </p>Janet Wade2024-03-15T17:18:00ZPrivate renters forum 29 November 2023Antonia Msimangahttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=487864047&entryId=5916801882023-12-08T10:13:35Z2023-12-08T10:09:00Z<p>We held our autumn private renters forum on Wednesday 29 November.</p>
<p>This forum provided expert advice on living in a house in multiple occupation (HMO), claiming back rent (for example if you live in an unlicensed HMO), and how trading standards regulate letting agents, tenant fees and unfair practices. We also explained what the Council can do to help.</p>
<p>You can <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/play/wjlM8Kkd6D9uLgSet4pEJ1cb_AM6k9NaVwOi1d6ex9vPSEFTHq83xs-Fk0wU9DUD9qAg82JnyLnbOLQ.sF-n6eYdV7tXQjpJ?canPlayFromShare=true&from=my_recording&continueMode=true&componentName=rec-play&originRequestUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fus02web.zoom.us%2Frec%2Fshare%2FdwQM4bLkqhM6kUC8KmAdAz4JHLUpzRjrHVx8BTvWWsS390aJqFmWw1gRx8vO5hDN.uU5lYG6TzxLxtlU2">watch a recording of the forum</a></p>
<p>Passcode: !d?4PUYt</p>
<h2>Presentations</h2>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.camden.gov.uk/documents/482325345/0/Tenant+forum+-+November+2023.pdf/fd275987-dca1-53dc-4ed5-bc70260827f7?t=1702030368316" target="">Camden’s private rented sector and how the Council can help (LB Camden)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.camden.gov.uk/documents/482325345/0/202301127+Justice+For+Tenants+presentation+to+Camden+tenants+forum.pdf/9d8e7351-b0a7-9690-8cb0-8c54246ead5e?t=1702030386494" target="">Rent repayment orders (Justice for Tenants)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.camden.gov.uk/documents/482325345/0/NTSELAT+-+Camden+tenant+forum+%281%29.pdf/e4535eb0-e670-2698-c2fc-e43178cdfbdc?t=1702030398841" target="">Letting agents, tenant fees and unfair practices (National Trading Standards Estate and Letting Agents Team)</a></li>
</ul>Antonia Msimanga2023-12-08T10:09:00ZE-bike fire safety warningJanet Wadehttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=487864047&entryId=5708281592023-07-14T14:10:39Z2023-07-14T10:49:00Z<p>Trading Standards advice to anyone purchasing an e-bike, e-scooter or spare batteries and chargers: <br />
<br />
• only purchase e-bikes, e-scooters, chargers and batteries from trusted retailers<br />
• never buy fake batteries or chargers, and ensure that any device you use displays a valid UKCA or CE mark<br />
• check that separate components, such as batteries and chargers, are compatible with one another<br />
• register your product with the manufacturer to validate any warranties on components including batteries, registering makes it easier for manufacturers to contact you in the event of safety or recall information<br />
• check any products you have bought are not subject to a product recall, you can do this by checking <a href="https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/product-recalls/">Electrical Safety First’s</a> website or the government website<br />
• follow <a href="https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/safety/the-home/e-scooters-and-e-bikes/">London Fire Brigade advice</a> on charging the scooter safely, last year they attended over 116 fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters<br />
<br />
If you think the e-scooter or charger you have purchased is unsafe, stop using it and report to trading standards via Citizens Advice consumer service on 0808 223 1133</p>Janet Wade2023-07-14T10:49:00ZPrivate renters forum 8 June 2023Antonia Msimangahttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=487864047&entryId=5658707552023-12-08T10:15:10Z2023-06-09T13:52:00Z<p><i></i>We held our first private renters forum on Thursday, 8 June 2023, providing much needed advice to renters in the current economic climate.</p>
<p>We had speakers talking about damp and mould, help with cost of living, dealing with rent hikes, illegal evictions and the new renters reform bill and how the Council can help.</p>
<p>You can <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/gLdAQTci4DA2Qi_sb9AKTRguInsoYR8xMtDJnI5Fa1e_dL58lzgxBZVvLOfN5_37.MSVwGL75WgllSX_-">watch a recording of the forum</a></p>
<p>The passcode to view the recording is: 2%%02h9O</p>
<h3>Presentations</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.camden.gov.uk/documents/482325345/0/COL+Private+residents+presentation+08062023.pdf/54ef98af-a6a5-aa62-9eae-cca1362f4da5?t=1686318965406" target="">Cost of living</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.camden.gov.uk/documents/20142/2134745/Damp+and+Mould.pdf/8baf2cef-abf7-968c-7197-63f9900b3d00?t=1684742376150">Damp and mould</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.camden.gov.uk/documents/482325345/0/Camden+Private+Renters+presentation.pptx/d21e59ca-8647-64e1-7341-685ccd47e6b9?t=1686323752759" target="">How the council can help</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.camden.gov.uk/documents/482325345/0/Safer+Renting+-+Renters+Reform+Bill+%2B+evictions.pdf/0f0f3dae-77f4-0e02-0b0f-86abd7b798b3?t=1686823480623" target="">Safer Renting - Renters Reform Bill</a></li>
</ul>
<p> </p>Antonia Msimanga2023-06-09T13:52:00ZAre you affected by damp and mould?Antonia Msimangahttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=487864047&entryId=5473932502023-01-10T11:19:47Z2023-01-10T11:17:00Z<p>We want to make sure everyone in Camden is living in homes that are free from damp and mould. We have created a new <a href="https://www.camden.gov.uk/web/private-renters-in-camden/damp-and-mould" target="">damp and mould information page</a> where you’ll find information about the causes of damp and mould and what it looks like, what you can do to prevent it, and when your landlord should take action.</p>Antonia Msimanga2023-01-10T11:17:00ZJenny's story - a private tenantAntonia Msimangahttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=487864047&entryId=5335709562022-10-04T09:30:21Z2022-09-30T13:55:00Z<p>One third of households in Camden privately rent. We want to make sure that all private tenants are aware of their rights and know where to go if they are experiencing poor housing conditions. <br />
Our private rented sector team provide support and advice on a range of housing issues, from what to do if you are facing harassment, illegal eviction to help with contracts and deposits. The team also work with the Police to make sure tenants are protected in their homes.</p>
<p>Jenny, a private tenant living in Kilburn, was facing disrepairs in her home and harassment from her landlord. After contacting the Council, she was supported by tenancy relation officers who were able to visit her property and advise her on her rights. <br />
Watch Jenny’s story and find out about her experience and the support she received.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6F2X_nDK7L8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p><br />
If you rent privately in Camden and need help and support on any housing issues, we’re here to help. Visit our webpages, email, hmolicensing@camden.gov.uk or phone 020 7974 2543. If you are struggling with the rising cost of living, help is also available. Visit <a href="http://camden.gov.uk/costofliving">camden.gov.uk/costofliving</a>, call us on 020 7974 4444 (option 9), call Citizens Advice Camden on 0808 278 7835 or contact the organisations in Camden Advice Network – details at <a href="http://camden.gov.uk/can">camden.gov.uk/can</a>.</p>Antonia Msimanga2022-09-30T13:55:00ZMr Kimpiatu’s story – a private tenantAntonia Msimangahttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=487864047&entryId=5335705512022-10-03T09:47:33Z2022-09-30T13:43:00Z<p>Our private rented sector team receives over 60 complaints a month concerning conditions in privately rented properties. Where landlords are found to not be managing their flats properly or carrying out suitable repairs, the team can take enforcement action including the service of improvement notices, issuing financial penalty notices, or prosecuting in the magistrates’ court.</p>
<p>Mr Kimpiatu, a private tenant, was renting a property which was in severe disrepair and unlicensed. Following an inspection from the Council, formal action was taken against the landlord and Mr Kimpiatu was assisted in getting rehoused. </p>
<p>“The Council came and visited my flat. They saw the condition of the house and made me understand I couldn’t stay here. They took action against my landlord and helped me find a new place. I feel so much happier now.”<br />
Watch Mr Kimpiatu’s story and find out about his experience and the support he received.</p>
<div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9" data-embed-id="0iwvpi_W_Nk" data-styles="{"width":"100%"}" style="width:100%"><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0iwvpi_W_Nk?rel=0" width="560"></iframe></div>
<p><br />
If you rent privately in Camden and experiencing similar issues or need help and support on any housing issues, we’re here to help. Visit our webpages, email, hmolicensing@camden.gov.uk or phone 020 7974 2543. If you are struggling with the rising cost of living, help is also available. Visit <a href="http://www.camden.gov.uk/costofliving">camden.gov.uk/costofliving</a>, call us on 020 7974 4444 (option 9), call Citizens Advice Camden on 0808 278 7835 or contact the organisations in Camden Advice Network – details at <a href="http://www.camden.gov.uk/can">camden.gov.uk/can</a>.</p>Antonia Msimanga2022-09-30T13:43:00ZSupport for people who privately rent Antonia Msimangahttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=487864047&entryId=5189871022022-06-13T11:32:02Z2022-06-13T11:00:00Z<p>We want private tenants to have safe and decent homes and to know where to go for advice if they are experiencing poor housing conditions. One third of households in Camden privately rent and unfortunately many experience problems with their landlords.</p>
<p>Jack Kane, an operational manager for Camden Council said: “Landlords need to make sure that the property is free from serious hazards, which may pose a danger to tenants, deal with any issues in relation to the water, gas or electricity supply and make sure that there are smoke alarms fitted on every floor.”<br />
Many renters are not aware of their rights while privately renting and end up living in poor and illegal conditions, which are the responsibility of their landlord. </p>
<p>Some common conditions that renters face include:<br />
- Overcrowding<br />
- Damp and mould<br />
- Heating<br />
- Fire safety hazards.</p>
<p>There’s lots of support available from the Council and other organisations if you are experiencing any housing issues. Watch our short video, where Jack highlights the support on offer, key advice and the steps you can take.</p>
<div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9" data-embed-id="PmrCwDhQxPs" data-styles="{"width":"100%"}" style="width:100%"><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PmrCwDhQxPs?rel=0" width="560"></iframe></div>
<p> </p>
<p>If you rent privately in Camden and need help and support on any housing issues, we’re here to help. Visit our webpages, email, <a href="mailto:hmolicensing@camden.gov.uk ">hmolicensing@camden.gov.uk</a> or phone 020 7974 2543.</p>Antonia Msimanga2022-06-13T11:00:00ZAlba’s story – a private tenantAntonia Msimangahttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=487864047&entryId=5189869062022-06-13T11:32:40Z2022-06-13T10:49:00Z<p>Many private tenants like Alba are not aware of their rights and end up living in homes that are in disrepair and in Alba’s case illegally rented. </p>
<p>After contacting the Council, Alba who lives in shared housing was made aware that her home was an unlicensed property. With the support of the Council she was able to prosecute her landlord get a rent repayment order, which allowed Alba and her flat mates to reclaim a maximum of 12 months’ rent.</p>
<p>“I found the Camden Council leaflets at home. I didn’t know that the Council had all these experts to really look after us as private renters. Within the leaflets, I heard about what an HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) was, and I understood that my house qualified as one of these.”</p>
<p>Watch Alba’s story and find out more about her experience and the support she received. </p>
<div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9" data-embed-id="B49dZ-Ss8YM" data-styles="{"width":"100%"}" style="width:100%"><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/B49dZ-Ss8YM?rel=0" tabindex="0" width="560"></iframe></div>
<p><br />
If you’re concerned about the property you live in, not sure if your landlord has a licence or concerned about a rented property nearby, please read our <a href="https://www.camden.gov.uk/web/private-renters-in-camden/shared-housing" target="">webpages</a> for further guidance and help. </p>Antonia Msimanga2022-06-13T10:49:00ZCamden secures four rogue landlord banning ordersDarren Wilsherhttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=487864047&entryId=5037626702022-02-15T09:51:32Z2022-02-15T09:48:00Z<p>Camden Council has successfully secured banning orders against four rogue landlords after they were found to be letting an unlicensed and unsafe home in Kilburn.</p>
<p>The number of Landlord banning orders secured by Camden now stands at seven – the most secured by any local authority in England.</p>
<p>One of the four recent banning orders is against Mohammed Ali Abbas Rasool, 30, of Manor House Drive, NW6 7DF.</p>
<p>Last year Camden Council worked in partnership with the Met Police to <a href="https://news.camden.gov.uk/camden-secures-first-injunction-against-landlord-to-stop-illegal-eviction-of-tenants/">secure an anti-social behaviour injunction against Mr Rasool</a> after he repeatedly attempted to illegally evict and harass tenants at a property he owns in Kilburn.</p>
<p>The injunction was the first to be secured by a local authority against a landlord to protect private tenants from illegal eviction and harassment.</p>
<p>All four of these latest banning orders were given by <a href="https://www.gov.uk/residential-property-tribunal-decisions/36-pandora-road-london-nw6-1tt-lon-slash-00ag-slash-hba-slash-2020-slash-0001-0002-0003-and-0004">first tier tribunal decision on January 17th 2022</a>.</p>
<p>The other banning orders were given against </p>
<ul>
<li>Daya Ahmed Dayaaldeen, 64, of Upper Grosvenor Street, W1K 2NG</li>
<li>Henna Mohamed Rashid, 65, of Duke Street, W1K 6JR</li>
<li>Talal Faliez Fahad Sagor Alenezi, 82, of Picton Place, W1U 1BP</li>
</ul>
<p>The orders will take effect in six months and ban each of those prosecuted from letting property, engaging in letting agency work, and engaging in property management work in England for five years.</p>
<p>If the orders are breached, penalties can include imprisonment for up to 51 weeks or a court fine, or both or a Civil Financial Penalty of up to £30,000.</p>
<p>Camden’s Private Sector Housing team is continuing to support the tenants of the Kilburn property.</p>
<p>The team, which includes Environmental Health Officers and Tenancy Relations Officers, is also continuing to monitor the management of the property.</p>
<p>If a reputable new management agent is not in place when the banning orders against those currently letting the property takes effect, the Council will consider pursuing an Interim Management Order to take over management of the property.</p>
<p><strong>Councillor Meric Apak, Cabinet Member for Better Homes.</strong></p>
<p><i>"Around a third of Camden residents rent from private landlords and they deserve to live in properly regulated, safe homes and to be treated fairly. The pandemic has further highlighted the importance of the right to a home that is safe and secure.</i></p>
<p><i>Most landlords are decent law-abiding people however, for too long a minority have been able to let housing that is unsuitable while exploiting their tenants and woefully disregarding their wellbeing and safety.</i></p>
<p><i>Our HMO licensing scheme and Rogue Landlord Taskforce are continuing to improve the standards in Camden’s private housing sector, empowering renters to take action and helping good landlords to run successful businesses.</i></p>
<p><i>The legal action taken in this case was a necessary last resort. Our message to landlords and letting agents is that we are here to work with you; to provide advice and assistance first of all and to ensure you can meet your obligations."</i></p>
<p> </p>Darren Wilsher2022-02-15T09:48:00ZLandlord pays private tenants £50,000 damagesMartin Blackhttps://www.camden.gov.uk/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=487864047&entryId=4878649492021-11-30T13:42:22Z2021-11-25T11:09:00Z<p>Private tenants from Camden have been awarded over £50,000 after their landlord broke the law.</p>
<p>A court ordered the damages to be paid due to illegal living conditions in their homes.</p>
<p>The very poor standards included the removal of a kitchen wall – that was replaced by plastic sheeting during winter and lockdown – and allowing asbestos waste to remain in the front garden.</p>
<p><b>Justice for Tenants</b></p>
<p>The tenants were represented in their case by Justice For Tenants - a non-profit tenant advocacy service.</p>
<p>In court they also proved how the landlord had already been convicted of an HMO offence.</p>
<p>In the case the landlord claimed mitigating financial circumstances and that the tenants could not apply for the period of rent they were claiming. This was refuted by Justice For Tenants.</p>
<p>The Tribunal awarded 100% of the rent applied for - which was over £50,000 - under a Rent Repayment Order.</p>
<p><b>Having problems with your landlord?</b></p>
<p>If your landlord has not licensed the property you are renting or failed to comply with a council notice, you could be eligible to apply for a <u>Rent Repayment Order</u>.</p>
<p>If you need advice or representation for a Rent Repayment Order, please contact Justice For Tenants at <a href="mailto:info@justicefortenants.org">info@justicefortenants.org</a></p>Martin Black2021-11-25T11:09:00Z