Islington Residents Claim Housing Block Taken Over by Drug Users

Residents of Epping Place in Islington have accused their housing association, London and Quadrant Housing Trust (L&Q), of a "dereliction of duty" amid claims their housing block has been taken over by drug users. An elderly mother, identified as Ms Fagan, and her chronically ill adult daughter, Miss McCabe, say they are "petrified" for their safety and feel like "prisoners in our own home" due to intruders who they claim are threatening, intimidating, and using communal areas for substance misuse and drug dealing.

The residents allege that groups of intruders repeatedly attempt to force entry into the block and their flat by damaging doors and tampering with electrical systems to disable locks. They claim these individuals can bypass communal doors using readily available keys or by switching off the building's electricity supply. Videos and CCTV footage reportedly show men loitering, using substances, and forcing entry into the property. The residents have reported these issues to the police.

Allegations of Security Failures

Ms Fagan and Miss McCabe claim that L&Q has not adequately addressed their concerns, citing instances where security measures were allegedly bypassed or removed. They state that after a fire in a neighbouring flat in 2025, its door and windows remained unlocked for weeks, leading to further intrusions. The residents also claim that a charred, empty property was left uncleansed, resulting in toxic soot in corridors, and that another communal door was left off its hinges for approximately a year.

Medical letters seen by the reporter indicate that the ongoing situation is significantly impacting Miss McCabe's health. Doctors have written to L&Q requesting rehousing for both individuals due to the effects of "extreme anti-social behaviour" and "harassment" on her physical recovery and mental well-being, as she awaits medical operations.

Housing Association Response and Legal Action

L&Q stated that it has enhanced safety measures at Epping Place, including repairing the main entrance door, increasing visits from its housing management team, and working with the police to increase patrols. The association also claims it has offered the pair alternative housing options and that external doors were reported secure during their last visit in August 2026. These assertions are disputed by the tenants.

However, the housing association is reportedly seeking possession of the residents' home through the courts due to rent arrears. Ms Fagan and Miss McCabe maintain that their account was in credit until a recent period of serious illness and medical operations.

Charlie Culshaw, Director of Housing Management at L&Q, said: "We take all reports of antisocial behaviour very seriously. We’re sorry for the difficult experience that Ms Fagan and her daughter have had. We regularly meet with the police and local authority to report and address any concerns raised. We’ve put in place measures to improve security at Epping Place and help residents feel safe in their homes."

Mr Culshaw added that L&Q would continue to support Ms Fagan, working with local partners to monitor the situation and take action where necessary.