A Tenant's Champion

Merton Liberal Democrat Councillors convinced Labour council bosses to set up a Tenants' Champion scheme to give local renters more information and support.

Recent events have shone a spotlight on the conditions faced by some renters and leaseholders in the borough.

An ITV Investigation last month found infestations, collapsed ceilings and mould at the Eastfields Estate in Mitcham, run by Clarion Housing.

There are too many people across the borough in similar situations, both in housing association and private rented accommodation. And the council isn't doing enough to help them.

That's why Merton Liberal Democrat councillors fought to secure more action for renters and leaseholders.

The new Tenants' champion service will provide support by giving someone for residents to contact if they have long running unresolved conflicts with their landlord, and providing relevant information to renters more generally.