Landlords prosecuted over unsafe living conditions

Two more landlords have been prosecuted as part of Gloucester City Council’s continued crack down on unsafe privately rented accommodation.

 

The council joined forces with Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) back in March, in a bid to improve conditions in multiple occupancy houses and raise awareness of unsafe environments.

 

This followed city council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee pledging its commitment to improving privately rented housing in the city.

 

On Tuesday 14^th June at Cheltenham Magistrates Court , Gloucester City Council took enforcement action against two landlords. They had both failed to manage and maintain their ‘house in multiple occupation’ (HMO) to an acceptable standard, placing their tenants at risk of harm.

 

The two owners of the accommodation above The Hilltop Restaurant in Worcester Street, Gloucester pleaded guilty to failing to comply with management regulations and for failing to complete the work required in an improvement notice.

 

The property was refurbished after a fire in 2004 had seriously damaged the building., with the tenants in residence at that time having to be rescued by GFRS. However, since those repairs were made, the rented property had been allowed to fall into disrepair.

 

As part of the council’s on-going proactive work, the property was visited by officers and was found to have a faulty fire alarm system, which was permanently sounding, and ineffective fire doors.

 

In addition there was damaged electrical wiring and ceilings in danger of a collapse, caused by a long standing roof leak.

 

Each defendant was fined a sum of £1,000, plus £300 costs on top.

 

Julie White, Private Sector Housing Manager said: “Whilst the majority of landlords operate within the law and offer a good standard of housing, there are some who don’t.

 

“Landlords have to realise that they must comply with the law. Failure to do so is an instant offence.

 

“Our joint working with GFRS has already brought us a lot of success in prosecuting rogue landlords, and should serve as a warning to others.

 

“This council will not tolerate landlords that place their tenants at risk of harm from poorly maintained and managed property.”

 

Gloucester News Centre – http://gloucesternewscentre.co.uk