Sem Moema

Sem Moema's council service, spanning from 2009 to 2026, reveals a consistent and evolving dedication to housing affordability, private renting standards, and resident welfare, with a pronounced emphasis on these issues in recent years.

Recent Activity and Evolving Priorities (2024-2026):

In the most recent years, Moema's focus has remained sharply on housing and resident support, albeit with varying levels of direct engagement. In 2026, his recorded activity was limited to an apology for absence from a Cabinet meeting on March 2nd, suggesting a period of reduced direct participation in high-level discussions. This contrasts with the more active role observed in 2025. During this year, Moema was a consistent presence in Cabinet meetings, primarily in his capacities as Deputy Cabinet Member and Councillor for Private Renting and Housing Affordability. A significant highlight was his chairmanship of the April 22nd Cabinet meeting, where he acknowledged the gravity of difficult decisions regarding school estates:

We are faced at a really difficult decision, and no one comes to this decision easily. No officer joins a council to close schools, and no elected councillor gets elected to be in this position where they have to make these difficult decisions.

Later that month, on April 28th, Moema actively championed proposals for renewed selective and additional licensing schemes for the privately rented sector and houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). He underscored the evidence-based rationale for these measures, stating:

So it's a real pleasure to be presenting this paper at today's Cabinet. Just for clarity for those watching at home and for those who have joined us in the gallery, this item seeks approval from Cabinet to approve a statutory consultation to introduce first a selective licensing scheme, covering all wards in the borough, with the exception of Agustin, Hoxton East and Shoreditch, Hoxton West and Woodbury Down. I'll come to those. The Crotin is based on the basis of poor housing conditions and privately rented accommodation. And secondly, an additional licensing scheme for houses and multiple occupation, HMOs, which covers all wards of the borough, and applies to HMO dwellings that are not covered by the national HMO mandatory licensing scheme. And it's important, as I take us through this, that there were 11 iterations of proposals considered by officers independently through the evidence base as well.

He also actively encouraged broad stakeholder participation in the consultation process, emphasizing:

So by launching this consultation, we will invite all stakeholders to have their say on the proposals. And I invite those in the gallery and online, whether you're a landlord or a tenant, to participate in that. Feedback will be vital in shaping an approach that is fair, effective and delivered safe homes in our private rental sector.

Moema also engaged in discussions about rent controls in September. His documented contributions in 2025 were most prominent in April and September, demonstrating a continued focus on housing policy and school estate management.

In 2024, Moema's engagement spanned various council functions, with a notable focus on housing partnerships and resident welfare. He provided detailed explanations of the Better Homes Partnership, supported revisions to the Council Tax Reduction Scheme, and voted in favor of council tax and business rate proposals. His involvement in licensing matters was evident in November, where he actively questioned details of an application on behalf of residents. In December, Moema addressed the critical issue of the Dalston Lane fire, outlining Peabody's support for affected residents and confirming ongoing council liaison.

Consistent Themes and Evolving Focus (2009-2023):

Moema's early career, particularly in 2009 and 2010, was characterized by a focus on scrutiny and accountability within the Health in Hackney Scrutiny Commission and broader council matters, including financial overspends and environmental commitments. By 2017, his role as Mayoral Adviser for Private Renting and Housing Affordability solidified his dedication to improving private rental sector standards, combating rogue landlords, and ensuring safe living conditions. He actively championed new regulatory powers and financial penalties for housing offenses.

From 2018 onwards, this housing focus intensified. He provided comprehensive overviews of private rented sector licensing schemes, discussed housing association liaison, and developed the Living Rent Homes model. In 2019, he proposed the abolition of Section 21 'no fault' evictions and advocated for improved housing association repairs and maintenance. The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic saw Moema focusing on its impact on the private rented sector, highlighting efforts to prevent homelessness and support private renters applying for Universal Credit.

His role as Mayoral Advisor for Private Renting and Housing Affordability continued to be central in 2021 and 2022. In 2021, he advocated for expanding protected characteristics under the Equalities Act. In 2022, his focus on private renters was prominent, detailing the Council's #BetterRenting campaign, successful enforcement actions, and advocacy against no-fault evictions. He also presided over Licensing Sub Committee meetings.

In 2023, Moema served as a Mayoral Advisor and Deputy Cabinet Member, with consistent engagement in Cabinet, Licensing Committee, and Licensing Sub Committee meetings, indicating a sustained involvement in advisory and decision-making processes.

Key Themes and Priorities:

• Housing Affordability and Private Renting: This has been the most consistent and prominent theme throughout Moema's council service, evolving from scrutiny of financial matters to direct policy development and implementation in the private rented sector.
• Resident Welfare and Protection: Moema has consistently advocated for residents, whether through licensing enforcement, support during crises like the Dalston Lane fire, or ensuring fair treatment in housing matters.
• Scrutiny and Accountability: Early in his career, Moema demonstrated a strong commitment to holding the council accountable for its financial decisions and project planning.
• Effective Governance and Decision-Making: His chairmanship of meetings and active participation in discussions highlight a commitment to robust and evidence-based decision-making.

Evolution of Focus:

Moema's focus has evolved from a broader concern for council accountability and scrutiny in his earlier years to a highly specialized and deep engagement with housing policy and the private rented sector. This specialization has become increasingly prominent and action-oriented in recent years, culminating in direct leadership on licensing schemes and housing affordability initiatives.

Most Significant Contributions (Recent Years):

In 2025, Moema's chairmanship of the Cabinet meeting and his active presentation and advocacy for new licensing schemes for the private rented sector stand out as significant contributions. These actions demonstrate a direct impact on policy development aimed at improving housing conditions and tenant protection. In 2024, his detailed explanation of the Better Homes Partnership and his direct involvement in addressing the aftermath of the Dalston Lane fire highlight his commitment to practical solutions and resident support.

Patterns and Consistent Areas of Interest:

• Housing as a Core Concern: The private rented sector and housing affordability have been a constant thread throughout Moema's council tenure.
• Proactive Policy Development: Moema has consistently moved beyond mere attendance to actively propose, question, and champion policies aimed at improving council services and resident outcomes.
• Tenant and Resident Advocacy: A strong undercurrent of advocating for the rights and well-being of tenants and residents is evident across his documented activities.
• Engagement with Licensing and Regulation: Moema has repeatedly engaged with licensing matters, demonstrating an interest in regulatory frameworks that ensure safety and fairness.