Greenwich Council has made 1,000 visits to properties in a crackdown on rogue landlords.

The specialist rogue landlord team, launched last Spring, are currently involved in 800 investigations, served more than 100 improvement notices and has started legal prosecutions against rogue private landlords.

Visits have also led to the identification of 430 category one hazards which include leaking roofs and letting water directly into homes.

Greenwich Council cabinet member for community safety and environment, Jackie Smith, said the team has been all over Greenwich to ensure tenants are protected from a small number of landlords who shirk their legal responsibilities.

She added: "At a time when private sector rents are so high, it's especially unacceptable for tenants to have to live in some of the poor, dangerous and often illegal conditions we have been seeing."

London Fire Brigade (LFB) are also a key partner in the project as overcrowded properties create serious fire risks.

Greenwich borough fire commander Bob Selby said: "Collectively we are able to support well intended landlords unsure of their obligations.

"But also through joint enforcement, apply more punitive measures to those who knowingly neglect the safety of their tenants."

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Legal action and enforcement is taken by the team in the most serious and dangerous cases, including where landlords have continually failed to act on demands to improve their property.

Practical advice and guidance is also offered to landlords willing to make the necessary improvements.

If you are concerned that a private property in Greenwich is overcrowded, dangerous or operating illegally, contact the Rogue Landlords team on 0208 921 8157 or email residentialservices@royalgreenwich.gov.uk.