A total of 93 “beds in sheds” being used as unlawful accommodation have been shut down in two years by Redbridge council, according to new figures.

The release of the date is part of the council crackdown on the illegal use of outbuildings as residential properties in the borough.

Since 2013, Redbridge council’s planning enforcement and housing standards team has investigated 454 suspected illegal outbuildings.

Five landlords have been prosecuted so far with court fines and costs totalling £62,065.

There has been 63 Housing Prohibition Orders and 30 Planning Enforcement Notices on outbuildings which did not meet housing standards.

Labour councillor Helen Coomb, cabinet member for planning, said: “Beds in sheds are completely unacceptable and we are determined to rid them from our borough.

“They are often unsafe and rented to vulnerable people by greedy landlords who are more interested in profit rather than their basic responsibilities.

“Our blitz on beds in sheds sends out a loud and clear message to all those who build or let out unauthorised outbuildings – they will not be tolerated and we will take action.”