Kensington HMO tenants lack laundry for four months

Residents of a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) on Queen's Gate Terrace in Kensington have been without washing machines for over four months. The lack of laundry facilities is one of several issues tenants have raised with the current property management company, Bridgepoint, which is seeking an HMO licence from Kensington and Chelsea Council.

The problem began in May when the previous management firm, London Living, reportedly removed cooking facilities and tenant food from refrigerators. Bridgepoint took over management in mid-May and has been blamed by tenants for the continued absence of laundry services, although the company states it inherited maintenance and compliance issues from London Living.

Ongoing Facility Issues

Corinne Posner, 26, a resident at the property, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that the situation has severely impacted her mental health. She reported that in addition to the lack of washing machines, she also experienced a period without a cooker or microwave after the handover. Bridgepoint has stated that the removal of fridges, laundry, and cooking facilities was done by London Living without the freeholder's permission.

An email from Bridgepoint in June indicated that washing facilities would not be reinstated as they were not part of the written tenancy agreement. However, Kensington and Chelsea Council's minimum standards require laundry facilities in large HMOs. Bridgepoint has since informed prospective residents that replacement laundry equipment is being arranged.

Tenant Concerns and Management Response

Tenants have also raised concerns about a ban on overnight guests, which they believe may be unlawful. Bridgepoint has stated that reasonable house rules are in place for security and the safe use of communal areas, rather than a blanket ban. One resident, Lucy, discovered photographs of her bedroom, including personal belongings, had been uploaded to the SpareRoom website by Bridgepoint without her consent. The company removed the advertisement, attributing it to an error.

A spokesperson for Bridgepoint said the company assumed management in early 2026, inheriting significant issues from London Living. They stated that Bridgepoint has been working with the freeholder on upgrades to fire safety, electrical systems, maintenance, and communal facilities. The company added that it is actively engaging with Kensington and Chelsea Council throughout the HMO licensing process.

Licensing Application

Bridgepoint has applied for its own HMO licence following its takeover of management. Tenants have expressed a desire for Kensington and Chelsea Council to reject this application due to the ongoing lack of laundry facilities and the stress caused by the management's handling of the transition. Ms Posner was issued an eviction notice in July for rent arrears, which she paid after withholding rent due to the missing facilities. The threat of eviction has since been lifted.

Bridgepoint has stated that eviction notices were issued following legal advice regarding rent arrears and were not related to facility issues or requests for rent reductions.

What Happens Next

Kensington and Chelsea Council is processing Bridgepoint's application for an HMO licence. The council's decision will likely consider the ongoing issues raised by tenants, including the provision of laundry facilities and adherence to minimum HMO standards.