Jas Athwal, who has just been appointed an MP for Ilford South, has attracted controversy, following the state of his renting houses. According to the BBC, Mr. Athwal is a landlord of 15 rental flats, which makes him the most prominent real estate owner among the MPs.

Mr. Athwal acknowledges that his flats are not following the licensing scheme requirements. This came out notwithstanding his previous assertions that he was within the law.

Concerning the concerns that some of the tenants raised, Mr. Athwal said that he was ‘taken aback’ and was ‘very sorry’ as to the issues that have been laid to him. He stated that it was due to the fact his properties were being managed by an outside company and assured that appropriate works would be carried out, without delay.

“I know it’s my responsibility to have issues addressed as soon as they arise and have met the property management company to understand failures in communication”

Jas Athwal, Labour MP

The reported problems are more than those of mould and presence of ants.

The BBC also reported a variety of other issues in the flats like dirty, common parts, poorly maintained non-functioning lights and poor maintenance of fire alarms. Many tenants also claimed that the property manager for the flats did nothing about their concerns.

Andrew Boff, a member of the London Assembly representing the Conservative Party, has demanded that the Labour Party and the Redbridge Council look into Mr. Athwal’s properties and their upkeep. To this end, he maintained that tenants’ intimidation may have made them reticent to speak and expressed his discontent over the double standards that Mr. Athwal, the council leader, expected from the residents and the condition of his properties.

Mr. Athwal claimed to The Independent that he was ‘renters’ champion’ and was ready to tackle the challenges. He accepted that it was necessary for improvement in management and communication and is in the stage of re-applying for the lapsed property permits.

As such, this situation showcases persistent problems relating to property occupancy and tenant protection, more so considering what the Labour Party promises to do in its 2024 election manifesto on incorporating basic rights among private renters to prevent abuse and inequality.