October 12th 2024.
An HMO landlord in Brent has recently been hit with a hefty fine of £50,000, marking the largest set of fines issued this year. The reason for this steep penalty? Well, it turns out that this particular landlord was charging eight individuals, including children, a whopping £3,500 to live in a five-person home. And to make matters even worse, this "house of horrors" was plagued with rats, mould, and a broken toilet.
Upon receiving a report from one of the tenants about a leak and the presence of rodents and a broken toilet, Brent Council decided to investigate the matter. What they found was truly shocking - eight people crammed into a semi-detached house on Vivian Avenue in Wembley. It was clear that the living conditions were far from safe and sanitary.
The landlord, Sanjay Patel, appeared in court and it was revealed that he was not only breaking housing legislation with faulty doors, mould, and blocked hallways, but he also didn't even have a license to rent out a house of multiple occupation. According to the council's website, an HMO license is mandatory for properties housing five or more people from two or more households, with shared kitchen, bathroom, or toilet facilities. Those who fail to comply with this requirement may face unlimited fines, a criminal record, and even a ban from renting out properties.
As a result of his numerous violations, Mr. Patel was fined a total of £49,495 by Willesden Magistrates Court. This marks the largest set of fines and court costs imposed on an HMO landlord in Brent this year. The council's leader, councillor Muhammed Butt, expressed the severity of this case and the council's determination to crack down on rogue landlords who take advantage of their tenants.
He stated, "We won't let landlords exploit tenants in Brent. We are committed to ensuring that all renters have the right to live in safe, decent, and secure homes. It is mandatory for all rental properties in Brent to have a license, and landlords who are still operating without one should apply online as soon as possible to avoid facing consequences from our enforcement officers. Don't get caught out - get licensed."
In the meantime, the property in question is currently undergoing repairs, according to the council. It is clear that this landlord's actions were inexcusable and it serves as a reminder that the safety and well-being of tenants should always be a top priority for all landlords.
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