A rogue landlord has been fined for a second time this year for failing to license his portfolio of houses.
Peterlee Magistrates Court heard that Kamran Adil, 53, of Halterburn Close in Gosforth, should have bought a selective licence for six properties in Blackhall Colliery (pictured) since the scheme came into effect in April 2022.
He was ordered to pay an £18,000 fine, £7,200 victim surcharge, and £350 costs, totalling £25,550. The landlord had already been convicted and fined more than £45,000 by magistrates in April, for failing to ensure he obtained licences for a further eight properties.
During this second investigation, Adil attended an interview with officers where he confirmed he knew his legal obligation and would make applications for obtaining a selective licence. However, the court heard that the properties remained unlicensed.
Magistrates were told the properties were in significant disrepair with issues including excess cold, damp and mould, electrical hazards, no carbon monoxide alarms, structural concerns, fire safety, pests and refuse.
Ted Murphy (pictured), Durham Council’s building safety and housing standards manager, says since the selective licensing scheme came into effect in 2022, the authority had taken all reasonable steps to ensure that the landlord complied with his legal obligations. “Despite having previously faced conviction for not obtaining a licence, Mr Adil failed to adhere to his legal responsibility, meaning further action has been taken,” adds Murphy.
“We hope this prosecution serves as a warning that we will not cease in taking action against those who fail to fulfil their duties as a landlord.”
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