More than 300 people have already had their say on a scheme that protects renters from inadequate, poorly maintained and overcrowded housing.

The initiative, which was introduced in the borough by Barking and Dagenham Council in 2014, makes it compulsory for every private rented property in the borough to have a licence.

The current scheme ends in August 2019 and the council is asking people for their opinions on a new scheme, which would require landlords to comply with a number of requirements, including providing a valid gas safety certificate and showing evidence of insurance.

Private rented accommodation accounts for almost 30 per cent of all housing in the Barking and Dagenham.

An important way to tackle rogue landlords

Councillor Margaret Mullane, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, said: “The landlord licensing scheme is an important way to tackle rogue landlords, and ensure that everyone has a decent home to live in.

“We hope to continue the progress we’ve made on improving housing standards with our new proposed scheme.”

Under the new initiative, a licence would cost £900 but landlords with good track records could be eligible for a discount.