The impact of abuse of short-term lets by rogue landlords

Conservative Group Leader Cllr Paul Swaddle OBE today highlighted the impact on local people of the abuse of short-term lets by rogue landlords across Westminster.

Paul explained,

"It is shocking that the Labour-run Westminster City Council is turning a blind eye to the abuse of short-term lets. The law is clear: people can only let properties "short-term" for a maximum of 90 days a year, but many are abusing this, causing disruption and anti-social behaviour across our city.

We’ve all seen or heard the consequences: late-night partying, rubbish dumped on streets regardless of collection days, and a constant year-round flow of people coming in and out of flats, affecting the quality of life for long-term residents. All while rogue landlords are pocketing the proceeds from this blatant abuse of the law. 
    
While Westminster City Council claim to be investigating hundreds of cases, we need to see real action, which means bringing more cases forward for prosecution.

Without legal consequences, there is no reason for landlords to take the system seriously.

If the Conservatives are elected in May 2026, I pledge to make this issue a priority and to stamp out this practice.
    
Nationally, the registration scheme for short-term lets, which the Conservative Government passed into law, is still not live. This, if done properly, would allow far easier policing of the rules. However, the Labour Government is dragging its heels on enacting this important legislation.

If you are adversely affected by short-term lets, there are three practical steps to take:
1.    Report abuse of short-term lets directly to the Council
2.    Tell the Council about specific cases of fly-tipping. noise or other issues caused by short-term lets in your neighbourhood
3.    Report a party, noise complaint or neighbourhood concern directly to Airbnb

If you feel that the Council is not responding to your concerns in a timely way, please raise them with your Conservative councillors. My team and I are here to help.

As a City, we welcome millions of visitors, but this needs to be done with mutual respect."

Report short-term lets to the Council

Tell the Council about fly-tipping or noise from short-term lets

Contact Airbnb if you have specific concerns