Labour MP Exposed for Renting Flats with Black Mould and Ant Infestations
Claims of Ant Infestations and Black Mould in Flats Owned by Newly-Elected MP
Jas Athwal, the newly-elected Labour MP for Ilford South, is facing serious allegations from his tenants, who have accused him of renting out flats in poor condition. Athwal, the largest landlord in the House of Commons with 15 rental properties, has come under fire after tenants reported widespread issues, including black mould, broken lights, and severe ant infestations.
Tenants from one of Athwal’s blocks have described their dire living conditions. Several tenants have reported regularly being forced to clean black mould from their bathroom ceilings. Others have shared disturbing accounts of ants invading their homes, with some even finding the insects on their children’s clothing.
The situation has been compounded by claims that tenants were threatened with eviction if they dared to complain about these issues. It has raised concerns about the management practices of the properties owned by Athwal, who has previously positioned himself as a strong advocate for renters’ rights.
Athwal responded to the allegations by expressing shock and deep regret. He stated that a third-party agency manages the properties, and he was unaware of the extent of the problems. Following the revelations, Athwal met with the property management company to understand the failures in communication and management. He has vowed to take immediate action to rectify the issues and improve the living conditions of his tenants.
The controversy has drawn attention from Andrew Boff, a Conservative member of the London Assembly, who has called on the Labour Party and Redbridge Council to investigate the conditions of Athwal’s rental properties. The situation is further complicated by the fact that Athwal has acknowledged that his properties lack the proper licenses required under a scheme he introduced as the leader of Redbridge Council. He is now working to renew these licenses to comply with the regulations.
In his public apology, Athwal emphasized his commitment to providing safe and secure housing at below-market rents. He expressed deep remorse for his tenants’ conditions and promised to review the property management practices to ensure such issues do not occur.
A spokesperson for Redbridge Council confirmed that they are aware of the situation and will take enforcement action if any properties are found to be operating without the necessary licenses. The council stressed the importance of maintaining high standards for all rental properties in the area, ensuring the safety and well-being of tenants across the community.
This unfolding story highlights the ongoing challenges renters face and landlords’ responsibility to provide safe and habitable living conditions. As the investigation into Athwal’s properties continues, many will watch closely to see how these issues are addressed and whether justice is served for the affected tenants.
Read more:
- Grenfell Inquiry Report Expected To Expose’ Catastrophic Failures’ And Spark Criminal Action”
- Starmer Criticized for ‘Petty’ Decision to Remove Thatcher Portrait from No. 10
- Is the Laughing Gas Ban Driving Users Toward More Dangerous Drugs?
- Man In Wheelchair Stabbed To Death In East London
- Pensioners Face Tough Winter Amid Fuel Payment Cuts
- UK Government Allocates £10.5m to Ports for Enhanced EU Biometric Border Checks
- Keir Starmer Warns of ‘Painful’ October Budget Amid Unexpected Financial Crisis
- Sven-Goran Eriksson, Former England Manager, Dies at 76 After Cancer Diagnosis
- Major Fire at Dagenham High-Rise: Over 200 Firefighters Battle Blaze, Residents Evacuated
- Woman, 32, in Life-Threatening Condition After Multiple Stabbings at Notting Hill Carnival
- The Labour Government’s Highly Publicised Plans To Improve Workers’ Rights
- Southport Stabbing! Elsie’s Family Holds Funeral for ‘Truly Unforgettable’ Daughter
