13th
Dec 2015
Both landlord and managing agent have been slapped with fines for failing to follow HMO regulations under the 2004 Housing Act.
The Mitcham landlord and agent felt they could get away with renting out eight bedsits in a three storey property, without notifying the council and applying for a HMO licence.
The licence’s stipulation is that where many people, who are not related, reside in the same property, then the house must be inspected to make sure that it complies with all of the safety and fire regulations.
The housing spokesman for Wandsworth council Councillor Paul Ellis, states that the legislation is there to stop rogue landlords from making as money as possible from a property by squeezing in as many tenants as they can, without ensuring all safety procedures, fixings and appliances are in place.
Ellis said: “It is vitally important that homes that have been converted into multiple flats or bedsits are maintained to a high standard and that all the necessary safety measures are met in full.”
He advised the public that: “Tenants considering renting out this type of accommodation should always ask to see the owner’s HMO license.”
The landlord and agent pleaded guilty to breaking the legislation under the Housing Act 2004 and received orders to pay £7,120 and £2,550 in fines and court costs.
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