Throughout June we have seen thousands of pounds in fines handed out to landlords all across the country. However, it’s not just landlords that are in the firing line; we have also seen a growing number of agents receive fines related to HMO safety standards and unmet licensing requirements.
This is a reflection of the continued increase in enforcement from local councils. Earlier this month, for example, Barking and Dagenham Council reported that they issued fines totalling more than £250,000 during the whole of 2020. The council also carried out 14 operations together with the Metropolitan Police in an effort to stamp out rogue landlords in the area.
At Kamma, we understand that property licensing is complex, inconsistent, and ever changing. Our technology and software cuts through that complexity to keep you on top of all the changes with clear and accurate advice. We analyse and sort data to help agents, landlords and surveyors understand the impact of Property Licensing and Planning Permission on their properties and assets. We leverage technology and data to help agents and landlords stay on top of new property licensing schemes and avoid licensing fines. Contact us or book a demo now to understand how Kamma can solve property licensing for you.
Property agency fined £21,500 in Manchester
Mecca Properties in Manchester was fined £21,500 this month for failing to comply with local licensing requirements. On inspection, the local council found several fire safety breaches and other HMO regulation breaches. These included lack of fire escape, fire alarm and the management company also failed to provide a gas safety certificate when requested.
The letting agency lost its appeal against the original fine given to the firm in August 2020 and are now faced with over £20,000 in fines. The First Tier Tribunal has agreed that Mecca Properties is guilty of systematic failings.
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Landlord fined over £16,000 for renting unsafe and unauthorised HMO
A rogue landlord has been fined over £16,000 after renting out an unsafe and unauthorised HMO. The landlord was found guilty of failing to apply for an HMO licence, in addition to failing to supply a fire alarm, fire blanket and fire escape to its tenants.
All HMOs in the borough must adhere to local licensing requirements, primarily so that the local authority can ensure that safety standards are met in all HMOs. The Mitcham council commented: “Applying for an HMO licence might seem daunting, but if your property is up to scratch it’s a quick and easy process, and it’ll end up saving you a lot more than if you’re caught without one.”
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Lincolnshire Landlord prosecuted and faced with fines over £4,000 for renting out an unsafe house
A landlord in Scunthrope has been hit with fines exceeding £4,000 following council inspections of a property that deemed the property to be so unsafe it was an immediate risk to life of its tenants.
The property had electrics with bare wires exposed in the bathroom and electrical sockets in rooms exposing connections. Following the first inspection, the council served a Prohibition Order on the landlord, which stated that the property was unfit for residential use until the hazards were repaired. However, it was later found that the property was still occupied and the landlord had breached the Prohibition Order, resulting in an immediate prosecution against the landlord.
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Contact us or book a demo now to understand how Kamma can solve property licensing for you.
