Statement from Cllr Chris Botten on recent Guardian article ‘Disabled woman evicted before Christmas … for highlighting the damp’*
A recent Guardian article titled 'Disabled woman evicted before Christmas…for highlighting the damp' has exposed issues in the way that Landlords are able to evict tenants, and the suffering that this can cause those who are most vulnerable.
Leader of the Liberal Democrats at Surrey County Council, Councillor Chris Botten has said:
"Residents in distress about their landlord and the condition of their rented property frequently raise issues with councils, and councillors, and it is especially concerning that tenants appear to be unable to secure repairs to their property without fear of reprisals.
The Guardian report indicates a failure of Elmbridge Borough Council, led by new leader of Surrey County Council, Cllr Tim Oliver, which has a duty to act on the behalf of its tenants, to secure its residents' wellbeing. I call upon Elmbridge, and all Surrey Districts and Boroughs, to use the full force of the law to protect their residents where there are apparent failings on the part of landlords.
The current national housing crisis requires all public bodies to defend tenants' rights wherever necessary."