A lettings agent described as ‘rogue’ by a London council, along with two lettings companies, have been heavily fined for operating a dangerous unlicensed HMO. 

The agent, Michel Zanon of Cricklewood, and the companies Galenon Ltd and Nathiam Ltd have been fined £60,000 at Highbury Corner magistrates court.

An early morning raid on the HMO in December of last year – attended by Camden council, the Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade and even the Greater London Authority’s deputy mayor for housing – found at least eight tenants in overcrowded and dangerous conditions. 

The raid also found fire safety and electric safety issues.

A council spokesman says: “A large proportion of Camden’s residents rent privately and pay through the nose to do so. The very least they can expect in return is to live in a safe, accessible home with decent living space.”

He continues: ”Camden council’s commitment to residents is that we will take the strongest possible action against landlords and lettings agents not meeting standards and disregarding tenants’ rights.”