Harrow Chronicle: Three makeshift homes that were being rented out despite having dangerous wiring and no proper toilet have been torn down by Harrow Council.

"Appalling" makeshift homes that were being rented out despite having dangerous wiring and no proper toilet have been torn down. Three illegal outbuildings were demolished by the London Borough of Harrow following a routine inspection behind a property in Camrose Avenue, Edgware. The structures were constructed from plywood and cardboard and posed serious health and safety risks due to unsafe electrics, poor insulation, and lack of bathroom facilities. With the site continuing to operate in clear disregard for housing law and the Emergency Prohibition Order, officers had no option but to order the demolition of the illegal outbuildings last week. Read more Brent and Harrow stations among five new ones to be prioritised for step-free accessEducation building could become health hub Calvin McLean, the council's director of environment, said: "No one should ever live like this. What our officers found was appalling and we are grateful to officers acting swiftly to put an end to the use of these illegal outbuildings. "We will continue to take action against anyone putting lives at risk. Residents are encouraged to report suspected illegal or unsafe accommodation so the council can act quickly." Due to the ongoing risk, the council ordered the structures' immediate demolition. Emergency works cost £7,500 and will be recovered from the property. Harrow Council says it helped the occupants to secure suitable alternative accommodation in the private sector. The council says it will take all necessary enforcement action to ensure the property is properly licensed and brought up to a safe and lawful standard.