Proposals to “name and shame” rogue landlords may eventually be introduced across the UK if the scheme proves successful in London.
Sadiq Khan, Labour’s candidate to be next Mayor of London, has outlined plans to set up a website of individuals who have been convicted of housing-related offences.
He announced the proposals, which draw inspiration from a similar scheme which has already been implemented in New York, during the launch of his mayoral manifesto earlier this month.
Inevitably there has been some debate about whether similar sites could be set up around the country if the project proves to be a success in the nation’s capital.
Speaking at Canary Wharf, Mr Khan said: “Most landlords treat their tenants well, but I’m determined to name and shame the rogue ones who break the rules.”
Zac Goldsmith, the Conservative who is hoping to succeed Boris Johnson at City Hall, has also spoken about the problems posed by bad landlords, although he has suggested that legislation already being outlined by government would go a long way towards addressing the situation.
The Housing Bill, which is at present making its way through Parliament, would set up a database of the worst offenders, seek banning orders and impose fines on guilty parties.