Criterion Capital Faces Scrutiny Over Tenant Evictions Ahead of New Legislation

Criterion Capital, a property management company founded by billionaire Asif Aziz, is under scrutiny for allegedly attempting to mass-evict tenants just weeks before the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act, which bans no-fault evictions in England starting May 1. The company has reportedly issued section 21 notices, which serve as formal eviction warnings, to a significant number of tenants. Labour MP Siobhain McDonagh highlighted that at least 130 such notices were sent to tenants at the Britannia Point development in her constituency of Mitcham and Morden.

The Guardian

In response to these allegations, Matthew Pennycook, the housing minister, expressed concern in a letter to Criterion, emphasizing the potential public outrage if tenants were indeed at risk of mass evictions. He characterized such actions as indicative of a "thoroughly unscrupulous landlord." Criterion Capital, however, has denied these claims, asserting that the notices are part of "routine and lawful tenancy management." The company stated that it had issued 87 section 21 notices across its portfolio, representing less than 5% of its total tenants, and contended that many tenants had chosen to leave voluntarily.

The Guardian

Reports from various tenants have indicated alarm and confusion upon receiving what they believed to be eviction notices. Local councillors have begun advocating for over 100 tenants at Britannia Point, highlighting the growing concern among residents. The London Centric website, which first reported on the situation, has also contributed to the discourse surrounding the issue, with tenants expressing their surprise at the notices.

The Guardian

Criterion Capital has criticized the use of the term "mass eviction," labeling it as "inaccurate and irresponsible." The company claims that the issuance of section 21 notices does not equate to actual evictions, as further legal action is required to enforce eviction. They maintain that they are engaging with tenants who wish to remain, stating that new tenancy terms do not necessarily involve increased rent or changes to existing agreements.

The Guardian

There is a discrepancy in the narratives surrounding the number of notices issued and the intentions behind them. While Criterion insists that the notices are part of standard management practices, critics, including Pennycook and local councillors, argue that the timing and volume of notices suggest a strategy to preemptively remove tenants before the new legislation takes effect.

The Guardian

As the deadline for the Renters’ Rights Act approaches, further scrutiny of Criterion Capital's practices is expected. The government has requested a transparent account of the notices issued, and the situation remains fluid as tenants and local representatives continue to voice their concerns.

The Guardian