A crackdown on rogue landlords in Lewisham has uncovered a dangerously over-occupied three-bedroom house lived in by 29 people.

Three raids in the space of two weeks also found a boarded-up restaurant had been illegally converted into six flats, while three rogue landlords involved in tax evasion had 50 properties between them.

Meanwhile there were five unlicensed houses presenting critical health and safety hazards, including the severely overcrowded three-bedroom house. There were also two cannabis factories running on stolen electricity.

The raids - including one in Lee High Road - were carried out by Lewisham Council and the police, along with gas and electricity suppliers.

Lewisham Council’s new cabinet member for housing Councillor Damien Egan said: "These operations send a very strong message to rogue landlords - there will no hiding place for you in Lewisham."

If you are a tenant renting privately and need help call the tenancy relations officer on 020 8314 8688 or 020 8314 8689.

If you are a landlord email psl@lewisham.gov.uk or call 020 8314 6733.