[1] As such it was one of the earliest adopters of the principal of the five per cent philanthropy model, outlined in the Company's resolution: "that an association be formed for the purpose of providing the labouring man with an increase of the comforts and conveniences of life, with full return to the capitalist.

"[1] The association was formed in 1841 by a group including Thomas Southwood Smith, George Howard, 7th Earl of Carlisle, Viscount Ebrington, Lord Haddo, Sir Ralph Howard[2][3] and Thomas Field Gibson and incorporated by Royal Charter in 1845.

[4] Its first project was the Metropolitan Buildings in Old Pancras Road, Kings Cross, which consisted of 21 two-room and 90 three-room flats in five-storey blocks.

By 1900, the MAIDIC was one of the largest model dwellings companies operating in London, housing over 6,000 individuals.

[6] Its activities declined as other model dwellings companies and the Greater London Council grew, which offered lower rents to a wider range of candidates.