A landlord couple in Haringey have been fined a total of £15,000 for failing to license one of their properties and make another one safe.

The portfolio landlords were fined £10,000 in May when a council inspection found that a formerly family home was operating as an HMO, and occupied by seven different households, accommodating nine tenants.

A few months later, another house was found to be in breach of housing regulations, highlighting ongoing concerns about the safety and compliance of their properties. The landlords failed to respond to requests from the council and were sent a £5,000 final penalty notice. Their licence period was also reduced to a three-year term from a five-year term.

Stark reminder

Councillor Sarah Williams (main image), cabinet member for housing and planning, says this case serves as a stark reminder that landlords have a legal and moral obligation to ensure their properties are safe, well-maintained, and properly licensed.

“The fact that they are repeat offenders makes this even worse and we will not stand for it,” adds Williams. “Our priority is the safety and well-being of our residents, and we will not hesitate to take action against those who put tenants at risk.

"We are committed to enforcing housing regulations and holding landlords accountable for their responsibilities. Landlords are urged to comply with licensing requirements to avoid penalties and ensure the safety of their tenants.”

The landlords have since paid both fines and both properties are now fully compliant with all safety and licensing requirements.