x
By using this website, you agree to our use of cookies to enhance your experience.

TODAY'S OTHER NEWS

Landlord hit with huge fine for 'worst property seen in years'

A landlord has been hit with a total fine of almost £40,000 for breaching House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) management regulations.

David Greene, 64, was prosecuted at Birmingham Magistrates Court on August 30 for letting a property which council officers described as the 'worst they had seen in the last 10 years'.

The landlord has owned the three-storey property, which includes ten self-contained flats, since 1986 and pleaded guilty to breaching HMO regulations.

Advertisement

When visiting the building, Birmingham City Council officers found smoke detectors hanging off the ceiling, ill-fitting fire doors and blocked fire exits.

There were also broken and boarded up windows and tenants had no access to hot water or heating. Meanwhile, the front and rear doors were insecure, leaving the property open to the elements.

The council said that it had previously contacted Greene on several occasions to resolve the poor conditions but he neglected his responsibilities and put the lives of vulnerable tenants in danger.

The landlord maintained he had issues gaining access to the flats but he was nonetheless hit with a fine of £35,000, costs of £1,941 and a victim surcharge of £170.

"Mr Greene has shown a callous disregard for his responsibilities as a landlord," said Councillor Sharon Thompson, cabinet member for homes and neighbourhoods at Birmingham City Council.

"This fine sends out a message to all landlords who ignore the law that Birmingham City Council will pursue anyone who lets out substandard accommodation."

  • icon

    This sort of landlord give all those good reputable and conscientious landlords a bad name. I'm sure he had no problems gaining access to collect the rents. A good reason why landlords like this should have his property confiscated and forced out of the market.

  • icon

    This sort of landlord give all those good reputable and conscientious landlords a bad name. I'm sure he had no problems gaining access to collect the rents. A good reason why landlords like this should have his property confiscated and forced out of the market.

  • John Dennis

    Wouldn't touch it with a bargepole! My decision to ditch the worst 25%of properties was spot on. Worst 25% give rise to 10% of your rent, and 90% of your hassle. Who needs landlords like this?

icon

Please login to comment

MovePal MovePal MovePal
sign up