£74k for rogue landlords issue

Government funding totalling £74,000 is to be used to tackle rogue landlords in Boston.
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Boston Borough Council received the full amount of funding after the Government recognised its work in dealing with the issue which has lead to appalling living conditions for some tenants.

As reported by the Standard last year, eight gangmasters in the area were under investigation as part of the council’s Rogue Landlord Project.

Such reports from 2015 included cases of sheds and a polytunnel greenhouse being used to house people.

Council leader Coun Peter Bedford said: “This is good news and recognition of Boston’s recent successes.

“Particular thanks go to the council’s housing team who worked on this.

“The MP, Matt Warman, recognising how important this work is for Boston, also made the case for us direct to the minister. We initially had funding for this work from Government two years ago.

“When that funding was used, we thought this to be such important work that we carried it on, with council funding. This grant means we can still carry on, but it eases the burden on the council tax payer.”

The council will receive £74,600 – the full bid amount for a 13-week campaign.

The main thrust of the council’s rogue landlords initiative has been to investigate cases where accommodation provided has been sub-standard and to prompt landlords into rectifying defects.

Successes have seen landlords invest in their properties, providing modern, comfortable and sanitary conditions for their tenants.

In a few cases, the council has shown that when all else fails, it has been prepared to take rogue landlords to court, especially where, when working with the fire service, there have been hazards presenting a risk of injury or even a risk to life. The council also works closely with the police.

Coun Ben Evans, portfolio holder for housing, property and community, said: “Our aim has always been to improve living conditions for all tenants in private rented accommodation and to persuade landlords to do the right thing for their tenants.”