A landlord charged eight individuals, including minors, a total of £3,500 to reside in a five-person ‘house of horrors’ infested with vermin, mould, and a malfunctioning toilet.
They were discovered ‘crammed into’ the semi-detached home located on Vivian Avenue, Wembley, after a tenant reported a leak, as well as the presence of rodents and toilet issues to Brent Council.
Landlord Sanjay Patel was found to be in violation of housing regulations due to faulty doors, mould issues, obstructed hallways, and general disrepair, a magistrates court was informed.
Moreover, he lacked the necessary licence to rent out a house of multiple occupation (HMO).
The council’s website outlines that an HMO licence is obligatory if the property accommodates five or more individuals from two or more households, with shared kitchen, bathroom, or toilets.
Failure to comply can result in unlimited fines, a criminal record, and disqualification from renting out properties.
Mr. Patel was fined £49,495 by Willesden Magistrates Court for violations of the Housing Act.
This marks the highest set of fines and court costs encountered by a HMO landlord in Brent this year.
Council leader, councillor Muhammed Butt stated: ‘This case exemplifies our firm commitment to pursuing landlords who attempt to take advantage of tenants in Brent.
‘We will not permit unscrupulous landlords to deny renters their fundamental right to reside in safe, decent, and secure homes.
‘Every rental property in Brent is required to possess a licence to conform to legal standards.
‘Landlords who continue to operate without a licence in Brent should submit their applications online today to avoid unwelcome visits from our enforcement officers.’
‘Don’t be caught off guard, ensure you have a licence.’
The property is presently undergoing restoration, as reported by the council.
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