A West Midlands letting agent, Tony Singh, is under investigation following accusations of failing to return security deposits to over 100 tenants and for alleged involvement in properties being used for criminal activity. The allegations surfaced after a property owner discovered a cannabis farm in a severely dilapidated rental home.
The owner, identified only as 'Dave,' reported that rent payments ceased, prompting him to visit the property. He found the house in disarray, with ceilings cut, walls damaged, and evidence of drug cultivation, including a cannabis farm discovered by West Midlands Police. The property owner stated the damage cost him £32,000 to repair and that he is owed £12,000 in back rent. He also noted that essential gas and electrical checks had not been conducted, leaving him uninsured against potential accidents.
Similar issues were reported by Dave's sister, who also used Singh's agency, Morgan, Payne & Knightly (MPK), to rent out her property. Rent payments stopped, and tenants claimed they had paid their rent, but the deposits were not returned. Dave stated that attempts to contact Tony Singh regarding these issues have been unsuccessful.
The BBC has sought comment from Singh regarding the allegations and the checks MPK conducted on tenants who occupied the property where the cannabis farm was found. Singh has not responded to these requests.