Legal News
Landlord Charged £28,000 Following Breaching Fire Safety Rules (28 October 2011)
Date: 28/10/2011
A landlord has been charged with a total fine of £28,000 after admitting to breaching fire safety regulations. The fines for Lee Pemberton, manager of PemCo Investments Ltd, related to seven fire safety breaches at a Preston-based property. Fire safety officials claimed that Mr. Pemberton, of Leyland, put tenants’ safety at risk in the property of multiple occupancy.
Mr. Pemberton failed to fit the property with suitable fire detectors and alarms, and failed to assess the property adequately for risks. There was found to be inadequate fire separation between the property’s staircase and basement, in addition to insufficient fire safety measures and an unsuitable maintenance system. Mr. Pemberton had failed to maintain sufficient fire separation between the floors of the property and failed to obey the requirements placed upon him by officials.
Mr. Pemberton, who had previously breached the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, was ordered to pay £1,000 per offence committed. In addition, he was required to pay out £500 in legal costs, plus a victim surcharge. PemCo was ordered to pay a £3,000 fine per offence committed and was forced to hand over £5,520 in legal costs and a victim surcharge of £15. John Hampson, a fire safety official, claimed that he would not hesitate to take enforcement action in the event of unnecessary risks being taken by landlords.
Duncan Lewis’ housing solicitors can represent landlords in court, ensuring that they receive high quality assistance throughout their case. The team are committed to providing a thorough, professional service.