A mother and three children said they have had to live in "terrible" conditions for the past two years.

Luz Elena Leguia Perez and her three children have lived in a flat in Southend Road, Beckenham, since 2016.

Speaking on behalf of the family, councillor Maria Linforth-Hall, told News Shopper: "It is a disgrace somebody should rent something like that. It is a squalor.

"One of the biggest problems is there is loose electrical cables above them which are not protected. There is either going to be an electrocution or a fire.

"The family are suffering physical and mental problems as a result of their living conditions."

A spokesman for Hamar Property Services - which manages the building on behalf of the landlord - spoke to News Shopper about the claims.

He said: "In 2016 the family moved in. When we receive complaints we act promptly and try to solve the problem.

"A few months back we were told that there was some mould. We visited and noticed the air vents were blocked. We carried out some work and installed fans.

"Later we got another report saying it was damp. If it is rising damp it is a serious matter. It takes time to take out. We installed new ventilation equipment.

"The people carrying out the works to the damp strongly believe it is a surface damp which will go away. We are monitoring it.

"When this started we offered the tenants alternative properties which they did not accept.

"The house was nice and clean before it happened. I don't know the main cause but usually damp comes slowly.

"Not opening windows is a big cause, washing and then drying clothes on a radiator and cooking without a window open.

"We have spent more than £5,000 on ventilation for the kitchen and bathroom. There is more than enough ventilation."