Action to shop overcrowding in Bognor Regis homes

The inspections are being carried out by Arun District Council officers to stop tenants sub-letting their homes.

The officials have warrants which give them permission to enter the dwellings.

Their action is being backed by the police and fire and rescue service. The campaign has been launched to crack down on tenants who become landlords and sub-let a property in contravention of their tenancy agreements.

Robin Brown, who is in charge of Arun’s housing policies, said: “The council will continue to pursue bad landlords and any other person benefiting from the exploitation of vulnerable people.

“It will also continue to work closely with its partners and stakeholders to ensure tenants have safe and suitable accommodation.”

Reputable landlords let a property in good faith to a suitable number of tenants.

But they then sub-let to other individuals in contravention of their tenancy agreements.

The result of the action is to create conditions which are overcrowded and unsuitable for those who end up living in them. They are being exploited by their illegal landlords and have to endure deteriorating conditions. The enforcement action was discussed at a recent meeting of property managing agents and lettings agents held at the Willowhale Community Centre in Rose Green.

Anyone with information about an overcrowded property should call ADC on 01903 737755.