Britain’s worst rental with NO WINDOWS revealed after horrified property hunters report ‘disgusting’ loft room
A TINY London loft room with no windows has been removed for rent after horrified flat hunters reported it to council housing safety bosses.
Prospective renters were horrified to learn that the ‘disgusting’ room in Catford, South East London, was being let out for £340 a month and advertised as being ‘ideal for a single guy’.
The new lodger, who needs to be a working bachelor without kids, would also need to share a kitchen and bathroom with other renters in the property.
When house hunters click on the listing photos they can see a narrow room featuring a leather sofa facing a mirror, with a large TV positioned to the side.
On the other side of the room photos show a single bed, a bedside table and girl band posters and wallpapers apparently peeling from the walls.
The Gumtree listing, from July 7th, stunned social media users who blasted its ‘truly horrific’ look and questioned who deemed it appropriate to let out.
One was so appalled that they claimed they reported it to the council’s Private Sector Housing Enforcement while others compared it to Harry Potter living under the stairs.
The listing has since been removed.
They wrote: “Not to be an absolute Karen but this is so bad I felt compelled to report it (even though I don’t live anywhere near here!). You can report this by emailing [redacted].”
Another commented: “Used to rent a one-bed mid terrace for £375…£35 more for a whole house.”
One wrote: “This is genuinely disgusting. F*** whoever thought this is an appropriate space to rent out.”
Another said: “Can you imagine that in a heatwave with no window!”
Essential UK rental laws:
Source: Housing Anywhere
The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 requires landlords to ensure their rental properties are fit for human habitation throughout the tenancy. The law includes natural light and window regulations for rented properties in the UK as set out by The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
If tenants believe their rental property doesn’t meet the habitation standards, they can take legal action against the landlord. Landlords who breach the Act may be required to perform repairs or improvements to the property and compensate the tenant.
As a landlord, you must ensure that your rental property meets the following requirements:
- Windows are in good condition and can be easily opened for ventilation.
- Any window that poses a risk to health and safety is secured or made inaccessible.
- Any room used as living accommodation has adequate natural light.
- Your properties are free from hazards, such as dampness and mould, and have adequate heating and ventilation.
- You carry out regular inspections and respond promptly to maintenance requests. You must give the tenant at least 24 hours’ notice before conducting an inspection.
The Housing Act 2004 is a UK law that sets out the standards for housing conditions in rental properties. It provides a framework for local authorities to regulate the privately rented sector and improve the housing standards for tenants.
Key points of The Housing Act 2004 include:
- Mandatory licensing for large HMOs. Landlords who rent out a property to 5 or more people from 2 or more households must apply for HMO licences (House in Multiple Occupation). This licensing ensures that HMOs meet specific safety and amenity standards.
- Selective and additional HMO licensing. Local authorities set licensing requirements to improve the quality and safety of rental properties in their area.
- Empty dwelling management orders allow local authorities to take over the management of long-term empty properties to ensure they are returned to use as rental properties.
One joked: “Love the ripped Spice Girls poster, spot on décor also the mirror opposite the sofa is for you to look at yourself and wonder ‘how did I get into this mess?”
The seller has been contacted for comment.
Lewisham Council have been contacted for comment.