Hounslow Council has taken a firm stance against illegal rentals, underscoring the importance of adhering to housing regulations. This commitment is exemplified by the recent prosecution of a local resident, Thillakarani Ratnam, who faced significant financial penalties for illegally renting out an outbuilding. As the council consults on renewing its additional licensing scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), landlords and letting agents must stay informed and compliant to avoid similar repercussions.
Key Details of the Prosecution
In a landmark case, Hounslow Council successfully prosecuted Thillakarani Ratnam for illegally renting an outbuilding since 2017. Advertised online for £1,300 per month, the outbuilding was not only unlicensed but also failed to comply with a planning enforcement notice. This notice required the cessation of its use as a rental property and the removal of kitchen and bathroom facilities. The court’s decision resulted in a £15,000 fine, over £20,000 in court costs, and a repayment of £35,000 from illegal rental income, totaling over £70,000 in penalties.
Cllr Tom Bruce, a representative of Hounslow Council, emphasized the council’s dedication to upholding housing laws and protecting community living standards. He stated, “Our actions demonstrate a clear message that illegal rentals will not be tolerated, and we are committed to ensuring tenant safety and compliance with housing regulations.”
Impact on Letting Agents & Landlords
The case against Ratnam highlights the severe consequences of illegal rentals, not only for the individuals involved but also for the broader community and rental market. Illegal rentals can undermine tenant safety, lead to substandard living conditions, and distort the rental market by creating unfair competition. For letting agents and landlords, this serves as a stark reminder of the importance of compliance with property licensing and housing regulations.
Hounslow Council’s proactive approach, including issuing 937 warnings, 652 notices for safety certificates, 135 notices for housing defects, and 51 civil penalty fines since August 2020, illustrates the rigorous enforcement measures in place. These actions are crucial in maintaining high standards within the private rented sector, where approximately one-third of Hounslow residents reside.
Next Steps & Policy Changes
In light of these developments, Hounslow Council is consulting on renewing its additional licensing scheme for HMOs, which is set to expire on 31 July 2025. This consultation, open until 21 May 2025, seeks feedback from residents and stakeholders to ensure the scheme effectively addresses the needs of the community and enhances tenant safety.
The renewal of the HMO licensing scheme is significant, as HMOs represent a vital accommodation source within the private rented sector. By participating in the consultation, landlords and letting agents can contribute to shaping policies that impact their operations and the quality of housing available to tenants.
For full details on licensing requirements in various regions, check Kamma’s Property Licensing Guides.
Conclusion
The prosecution of Thillakarani Ratnam serves as a critical reminder of the importance of compliance with housing regulations and the potential financial repercussions of illegal rentals. As Hounslow Council continues to enforce housing laws and consult on policy changes, landlords and letting agents must remain vigilant and proactive in understanding and adhering to licensing requirements.
Staying compliant with ever-changing property licensing rules is crucial for landlords and letting agents. Explore Kamma’s Property Licensing Guides for detailed insights on your region’s requirements. For landlords and agents looking to stay compliant, Kamma’s Property Licence Checker makes it easy to check if your property needs a licence.
