Legal News

Islington Council in north London has prosecuted a landlord for letting unlicensed flats in the borough.

Landlord Landhouse Ltd pleaded guilty at Highbury Magistrates’ Court to operating a licensable house in multiple occupation (HMO) without a licence in the Holloway Road, Islington.

The company was fined £12,700 and was ordered to pay Islington Council’s legal costs of £1,320, as well as £120 victim surcharge.

The court heard that an inspection by Islington Council’s Environmental Health Officers revealed the property to be overcrowded and poorly managed, with evident fire hazards.

After sentencing, Islington Council’s Executive Member for housing and development, Councillor Diarmaid Ward, said:

“With more and more people renting privately, we’re committed to helping residents make sure they have decent homes to live in.

“The majority of landlords act entirely within the law – but we will pursue and take action against those who don’t.

“I’d urge any landlord or tenant with concerns about property licensing to confidentially contact the council for advice and support.”

Since 1 September 2015, Islington Council has extended HMO licensing requirements to cover all HMOs on the Holloway Road and the Caledonian Road in Islington – including all rented properties occupied by three or more people in more than one household, as well as certain converted properties.

Duncan Lewis Property and Housing Solicitors

Duncan Lewis property and housing solicitors can advise on a wide range of housing law, including landlords’ obligations under the Housing Act.

There are Duncan Lewis offices across the UK and our property lawyers and housing team are also able to advise on:

• Debt management for homeowners
• Disrepair of rented property
• Housing Benefit
• Housing possession
• Landlord and tenant disputes
• Lease extensions
• Local Authority housing
• Mortgage repossession
• Notice to quit
• Nuisance neighbours
• Right to Buy
• Right to Rent checks
• Tenancy agreements
• Unlawful eviction.

For expert legal advice on housing law, call Duncan Lewis property and housing solicitors on 0333 772 0409.