Labour’s largest donor, Lord Waheed Alli, has come under public scrutiny after reportedly evicting a young family from his north London townhouse, only to relist the property for over £1,000 more per month. The case highlights key issues around tenant rights, housing disrepair, and tenancy disputes in the private rental sector.

What happened?

The family of five had been renting Lord Alli’s five-bedroom property for four years at a monthly rent of £4,800. In June 2025, they received a Section 21 “no-fault” eviction notice, requiring them to vacate the property.

Shortly afterward, the property was re-listed for £6,000 per month, representing a 25% increase. Despite the tenants’ willingness to pay the higher rent, their request to remain in the home was denied. The house was later rented to new tenants at £5,700 per month, a 19% increase on the previous rent.

Implications for tenants

This high-profile eviction brings attention to issues that can affect tenants across the UK:

  1. Housing Disrepair: Many tenants experience poor property conditions that landlords fail to address, impacting health and wellbeing.
  2. Tenancy Deposit Disputes: Evictions and lease changes often trigger conflicts over deposits, which landlords must protect legally.

The Renters’ Rights Bill

The UK Government has pledged to introduce the Renters’ Rights Bill, which will ban Section 21 “no-fault” evictions and strengthen protections for tenants. Once enacted, landlords will be required to provide genuine reasons for eviction, ensuring greater security for renters. Cases like Lord Alli’s illustrate why these reforms are urgently needed to prevent sudden evictions and exploitative rent increases.

GLP Solicitors: Protecting tenant rights

At GLP Solicitors, we specialise in helping tenants secure compensation for housing disrepair and tenancy deposit disputes. We understand that facing eviction or unfair rental practices can be stressful, and we are here to ensure tenants’ rights are protected.

Our specialist lawyers are aware that many tenants are unaware of their rights regarding property maintenance and deposits. Our team supports tenants in holding landlords accountable and claiming compensation for unresolved issues or unfairly withheld deposits.

How we can help you

  1. Housing Disrepair Claims: Compensation for landlords failing to maintain safe and habitable properties.
  2. Tenancy Deposit Claims: Recovering unlawfully withheld deposits at the end of a tenancy.

If you are experiencing disrepair in your rental property or have issues with your tenancy deposit, contact our team for expert legal advice and support.