WEST Devon Borough Council is adding its support to Shelter's national campaign to tackle rogue landlords.

The housing and homelessness charity is calling on local authorities across the country to take a tough stance against rogue landlords operating in their area.

As part of the campaign, the borough council will be using all the tools at its disposal to crack down on landlords who are ignoring their responsibilities and causing misery to local families.

The council already does much to drive up standards in private rented accommodation including prosecuting landlords who break the law, supporting landlords trying to improve their properties, regularly inspecting accommodation and helping tenants worried about their housing conditions.

Cllr Philip Sanders, leader of the council, said: 'Many families in West Devon rely on the private rented sector as there is a lack of social housing and high property prices. We offer help and support to tenants living in poor private accommodation so they don't feel they have to face the problem alone.

'Landlords who want to improve are also offered help through low cost loans. But for those rogue landlords who refuse to live up to their responsibilities we take enforcement action.'

Campbell Robb, Shelter's chief executive, said: 'We are pleased to hear that West Devon Borough Council is committing to firm action against rogue landlords operating in their area. Every day at Shelter we see the devastating impact rogue landlords have on people's lives, and we've been campaigning to urge government and councils to crack down on this small but highly dangerous minority who make people's lives a misery.'

For more information on Shelter's Evict Rogue Landlords campaign visit the website: shelter.org.uk/evictroguelandlords