A clampdown on dodgy landlords uncovered eight men living in a one-bedroom flat which had been illegally converted into four dangerous bedsits.

Barking and Dagenham Post: A one-bed property was found to contain four double mattresses, while eight men were found to be staying in another one-bed. Picture: LBBDA one-bed property was found to contain four double mattresses, while eight men were found to be staying in another one-bed. Picture: LBBD (Image: Archant)

A clampdown on dodgy landlords uncovered eight men living in a one-bedroom flat which had been illegally converted into four dangerous bedsits.

The property in Chadwell Heath was one of four in the High raided by enforcement officers from Barking and Dagenham Council in response to complaints from neighbours.

Since 2014, it’s been compulsory for private landlords in Barking and Dagenham to have a licence.

The flat had a licence but the bedsits all had electrical and fire safety hazards.

The remaining three properties were all unlicensed.

The council will submit prosecution cases against all the landlords, and if found guilty, they will face fines and a potential ban on letting properties in the borough.

Councillor Margaret Mullane, cabinet member for community safety, said: “We want to make sure that all housing in our borough is of a good quality and safe standard.

“If you are breaking the rules, it isn’t a matter of if we catch you, it is a matter of when.”