A rogue landlords in North Wembley got a rude awakening during two early morning raids on overcrowded properties.

The raids, which were filmed by ITV London News, were carried out simultaneously just after 6.00am as part of Brent Council’s increased efforts to ensure landlords with unlicensed properties are held to account.

Enforcement teams entering the first property found 11 people crammed into a three bedroom mid-terrace house, which was reported to be in a general state of disrepair.

The second property also showed signs of overcrowding however enforcement officers were unable to gain full access.

Photographic evidence was gathered at both properties and the landlords are likely to face prosecution.

In January the Times reported a dawn raid that discovered 23 people, including 10 children, living in a one semi-detached house.

In the last few months, the council’s increased enforcement activity has seen up to five prosecutions per week.

Cllr Margaret McLennan, cabinet member for housing, said: “These types of raids demonstrate the importance of our landlord licensing scheme. It ensures that properties are not overcrowded, are let out to an acceptable standard and are properly managed.

“It also reduces anti-social behaviour and illegally dumped rubbish which can have a significant impact on local neighbourhoods and property prices. Everyone in the borough benefits from licensing.”