Greenwich Council has launched a coordinated enforcement operation targeting unlicensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and anti-social behaviour in the Plumstead area, following an increase in resident complaints.
Officers from Environmental Health, Private Landlord Property Licensing, Waste Services, Parking Enforcement, Anti-Social Behaviour and Integrated Enforcement, working alongside the Metropolitan Police, conducted interventions at more than 120 properties in the targeted area.
Enforcement action
The operation was initiated in response to complaints from local residents regarding noise nuisance, littering and illegal parking. The council has focused its resources on streets with the highest number of reported incidents.
During the operation, officers identified instances of fly-tipping, suspected unlicensed HMOs or properties requiring licensing, and addresses linked to possible drug-related activity. Each case will be followed up by the relevant enforcement teams.
Councillor Rachel Taggart-Ryan, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Enforcement, said: “The purpose of the day was to reassure residents that we are listening and truly do care about the issues they’re facing in their neighbourhoods.”
“We are particularly focused on unlicensed HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) and the impact that some of these properties have on residents. Properties of concern have been noted, and they will be investigated,” she added.
Implications for landlords
The enforcement action highlights the regulatory scrutiny facing HMO operators in London. Properties operating as HMOs without proper licensing face potential enforcement action, which can include fines and restrictions on letting activities.
Greenwich Council confirmed that all identified incidents will be dealt with by either the council or police as appropriate. Taggart-Ryan stated that the council will continue to organise intervention days in different areas to reduce anti-social behaviour and environmental offences across the borough.
The council has indicated that similar operations will be rolled out across other parts of Greenwich as part of an ongoing enforcement programme, using joint teams to identify and investigate problem properties and neighbourhood issues.
