London Mayor Sadiq Khan has written to billionaire Asif Aziz regarding allegations that his property firm, Criterion Capital, is carrying out widespread evictions of London residents using Section 21 notices, which are set to be banned in May.
Eviction Allegations
The landlord faces accusations of “unacceptable” practices after tenants across properties owned by Criterion Capital reportedly received the controversial “no fault” eviction notices. The affected buildings include Britannia Point in Colliers Wood, Delta Point in Croydon, and Emerald House in New Malden, collectively containing 606 flats.
Criterion Capital acknowledged serving some eviction notices but stated they were “routine and lawful tenancy matters” and denied accelerating action ahead of legislative reform. The company declined to specify the exact number of notices issued.
Mayor Khan’s Response
A spokesperson for the Mayor of London said Khan is “appalled” by the reports and has requested an explanation from Criterion Capital. “It is unacceptable to force Londoners out of their homes for no good reason,” the spokesperson added.
The Mayor’s letter followed an earlier request from London’s deputy mayor for housing, Tom Copley, seeking clarification. Khan wrote that a lack of response and assurances regarding tenant security has created a “worrying and uncertain situation.” He reiterated his opposition to Section 21 evictions.
Background on Section 21 Notices
Section 21 notices allow landlords to evict tenants with two months’ notice without providing a reason. The Renters’ Rights Act will ban these notices from May 1st, 2026. Housing campaigners have identified them as a leading cause of homelessness.
Resident Concerns
Merton councillor Stuart Neaverson described the alleged actions as “the largest mass eviction London has seen in recent years,” stating the Colliers Wood community is “furious.” Residents held a meeting on Saturday to protest the evictions.
Clare, a resident at Emerald House in New Malden, expressed “shock” after receiving a notice, fearing difficulty finding new accommodation and disruption to her life.
Criterion Capital’s Statement
A spokesperson for Criterion Capital said stories about the evictions had been “materially misrepresented and politicised.” They stated a “small proportion” – fewer than 5 percent – of tenants across their portfolio had been served notice, characterizing these as standard commercial matters related to market-rent tenancies.
The company disputes claims of a “mass eviction” and maintains that the conclusion of tenancies does not equate to homelessness. They also noted that the notices were issued by managing officers affiliated with companies based in the Isle of Man.
The Aziz Foundation, founded by Mr. Aziz, has collaborated with the Mayor of London on the annual Ramadan Lights switch-on since 2023.
The Mayor of London’s spokesperson stated, “Sadiq has always been clear that every Londoner deserves the security and dignity of a stable home.”
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