A landlord operating an unlicensed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) has been ordered to pay £4,272 after being found guilty at Croydon Magistrates’ Court.
Justice Afrifa Smart, who owns a property in Southwark, central London, was fined £1,980 for failing to licence his property, produce documentation or provide information on who was living in the home.
He was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £792 and costs of £1,500.
Councillor Natasha Ennin, cabinet member for community safety and neighbourhoods, said: “Unscrupulous landlords have no place in Southwark. This case sends a clear message that we will not tolerate rogue landlords who ignore their legal responsibilities and put tenants in harm’s way.
“Tenants deserve to live in safe conditions and we are committed to upholding our licensing requirements. We urge all landlords to comply with the law or face the consequences.”
Smart failed to co-operate, as he was found guilty at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on January 8 and failed to attend the sentencing hearing on January 20.
Landlords of unlicensed properties may have to refund their tenants’ rent if renters request a Rent Repayment Order via First Tier Tribunal.
