After an array of fire safety offences were discovered at eight Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) properties owned by a property agent, a combined fine of £37,000 was handed to the owner. 

Omar Patel, who had 'previously been convicted of offences in Newham,' was found guilty at Camberwell Green Magistrates Court on two separate occasions in May and July.

The properties were checked by council inspectors who found that several of Omar's properties lacked fire, heat or smoke detectors, secure fire doors or protected escape routes. 

He was also fined for failing to license his HMOs, which inspectors state makes it 'difficult to tell if a property is fit for human habitation.' 

Officials will now monitor the nine addresses to take further action if Patel fails to make them safe.

Original Source
Southwark News