A property company and landlord have been fined over £58,000 after an unlicensed and unsafe House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) in Essex.

Uttlesford council’s inspection of the former Skyline Hotel in June 2024 revealed serious safety failings, including the absence of fire alarms, emergency lighting, and safe escape routes. Despite an emergency prohibition order being served, tenants continued living in the building for several months. 

At Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court last week, Dawn Hennessey pleaded guilty to operating an unlicensed HMO, and Wheatsheaf Mews Development Ltd admitted breaching the emergency prohibition order. Fines and costs following the criminal prosecution totalled £58,000.

Data was gathered for the council by the rental statistics operator, Marks Out Of Tenancy.