A major enforcement operation is under way in Brent to tackle landlords operating illegally without the proper licences, as part of the council’s ongoing commitment to improving housing standards and protecting renters.
On Friday 23 May, enforcement teams hit the streets in a coordinated borough-wide crackdown targeting unlicensed rental properties. Officers from private housing services, environmental services, and anti-social behaviour units joined forces for door-to-door inspections across areas flagged through intelligence-led reports.
The law requires every landlord in Brent to hold a valid licence before letting a property—except for homes in Wembley Park. Despite this, a number of landlords continue to flout the rules, risking tenant safety and contributing to poor housing conditions.
Councillor Fleur Donnelly-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Housing and Residents Services, said the action was vital to crack down on unsafe homes and hold negligent landlords accountable.
“Every landlord in Brent is legally required to have a licence to rent out their property. This law exists to protect people from landlords who ignore safety standards, cram too many tenants into unsuitable accommodation, or fail to carry out essential repairs,” she said. “We are targeting streets where we suspect illegal lettings, based on strong intelligence. Our goal is simple: protect tenants, prosecute lawbreakers, and support responsible landlords.”
The crackdown comes just weeks after two brothers were fined £20,000 and placed on the rogue landlord register. Brent officers discovered 15 tenants squeezed into a seven-bedroom house on Ilmington Road in Kenton following a neighbour’s complaint.
During the recent operation, officers not only investigated licensing breaches but also listened to residents’ concerns, inspected properties for hazards, and offered guidance on waste disposal and tenant rights.
Unlicensed landlords face prosecution and civil penalties of up to £30,000. However, the council is urging those who have yet to comply to avoid legal action by getting licensed now.
Brent is also currently consulting the public on proposals for additional licensing of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), aiming to raise housing standards further and give more protection to tenants. The consultation remains open until 10 June, and residents, landlords, agents, and businesses are encouraged to share their views.
The council’s message is clear: while most landlords play by the rules, Brent will not hesitate to take firm action against those who put profit before people.
