A Harrow landlord has been issued with financial penalties totalling £9,000 after repeatedly failing to comply with statutory notices served by Harrow Council and neglecting to provide essential safety information relating to a suspected unlicensed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO).

Council officers attended the four-bedroom property in Edgware following multiple complaints regarding the accumulation of waste outside the premises. During an internal inspection, officers identified serious deficiencies that posed significant risks to occupants, including a defective boiler and the absence of smoke detection.

A strong smell of gas was detected during the visit, prompting the attendance of an emergency engineer. As a result, an Emergency Prohibition Order was issued, preventing occupation of the property until urgent remedial works had been completed.

Despite a number of formal requests, the landlord failed to supply the required fire safety and electrical safety certification. These documents are critical in enabling local authorities to confirm management responsibility and to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to protect residents.

On 11 December, the landlord was found guilty of two offences: failing to provide a fire safety certificate and failing to provide an electrical safety certificate. The court imposed a fine of £5,000, a victim surcharge of £2,000, and ordered the payment of £2,000 towards costs.

Councillor Pritesh Patel, cabinet member for cleaner streets and public safety at Harrow Council, said: “Our officers work tirelessly to protect tenants and ensure landlords know their responsibilities. When they issue notices, those documents must be taken seriously. This case shows the consequences of ignoring warnings and allowing a property to fall into a dangerous state.”

Patel continued: “Our officers acted swiftly to shut the property down and prosecute Trivedi. No-one is above the law. We will continue to put residents first and take tough action against anyone who places them at risk.”

View the source.
Our eNews provides regular insight into industry trends, news headlines, and product and service information. For more articles like this Subscribe to our enews.