Haringey Council has successfully fined a Tottenham landlord and managing agent after finding “serious safety hazards” at an unlicensed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO)
The council reported that it initially visited the property on Clonmell Road after receiving a complaint about damp and mould. During their investigations, enforcement officers found the property had been operating as an unlicensed ‘additional’ HMO.
Multiple fire hazards were also identified, such as inadequate fire protection and dangerous stairs, that put tenants at “significant risk”, with the council issuing an Improvement Notice to address the failings.
Civil penalty fines were also given for “failing to apply for the required HMO licence”, totalling £12,500. Of this sum, the managing agent was ordered to pay £10,000, with the property owner liable for £2,500.
It is understood that the managing agent appealed the penalty to the First Tier Tribunal (FTT). However, FTT said the appeal was “misguided” and upheld the penalty in favour of the council. The managing agent’s name was also added to the Greater London Authority’s Rogue Landlord and Agent Checker, a public register showing housing offence fines and convictions.
Commenting on the “firm action” taken by the council, Cllr Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning and Deputy Leader, said: “This case makes our position absolutely clear, Haringey will not tolerate landlords or agents who put residents at risk.
“Every property must meet legal standards, and those who ignore their responsibilities will face decisive action.
“Our priority is protecting tenants and driving up standards across the private rented sector, and we will continue to pursue anyone who fails to provide safe, secure and properly managed homes.”
The council confirmed that the property has since been licensed and the disrepair addressed:
“The home now meets required safety standards, ensuring tenants live in a safe and compliant environment,” the council said.