A South London tenant is challenging her landlord, a homelessness charity, in court over alleged rent arrears after initially being served a Section 21 eviction notice.
Kim Mansell, who has lived in her flat for almost five years, is a tenant of the 999 Club, a charity that supports people experiencing homelessness in Lewisham and surrounding areas.
The 999 Club rents out several properties privately, separate from its homelessness services, to generate income for the charity. Earlier this summer, Kim was served a Section 21 ‘no-fault’ eviction notice, ordering her to leave by 11 August, despite her stating that she was not behind on rent at the time. She alleges that when she tried to discuss the eviction with the charity’s CEO, Charly Richardson, she was told a meeting would “neither be productive or appropriate” and was instructed not to contact him again.
Kim said the notice has had a significant impact on her health and described the situation as distressing. She highlighted that leaving the flat would require selling or giving up all her possessions, including furniture and personal items. She also claims she saw the property advertised online at a higher rent shortly after the eviction notice was issued.
In October, Kim received a court order showing that the charity is taking her to court in February 2026 over alleged rent arrears of £1,885. She disputes the amount, stating that she has been unable to obtain an explanation or breakdown from the charity or managing agents despite multiple attempts to resolve the matter.
The 999 Club has clarified that decisions regarding its properties are made with guidance from managing agents and independent legal support, and it does not issue eviction notices simply to increase rent. A spokesperson emphasized that tenants are directed to the managing agent for any support or enquiries.
New legislation under the Renters’ Rights Bill, coming into effect on 1 May 2026, will end no-fault evictions, meaning landlords must now provide a valid reason for eviction, such as rent arrears or selling the property.
