Peterborough Council has prosecuted a private sector landlord after he failed to supply information to the council.
At a hearing at Peterborough Magistrates' Court on 14 June 2017, Arshad Mahmood of Orford Road, Walthamstow in east London was ordered to pay a fine of £1,500, as well as a victim surcharge of £150 and the council’s costs.
Mahmood failed to attend the hearing and was found guilty in his absence.
The court heard that Mahmood had failed to supply information requested by the city council’s housing enforcement team after repeated attempts by the team to contact him.
The request came after reports were received about a rented property on Granville in Peterborough – which he owned – was in a poor state of repair.
After the case, Cabinet Member for growth, planning, housing and economic development, Councillor Peter Hiller, said:
“All landlords in Peterborough must be fully aware of their responsibilities under the law.
“This case demonstrates that we will not tolerate landlords hindering our investigations – particularly when the wellbeing of residents may be at risk.”
Senior prevention and enforcement officer, Gareth Brighton – who investigated the complaint on behalf of the council – added:
“Every effort was made to work with the landlord in this case to ensure he complied with his statutory obligations – however, he failed to engage with the council.”
The council’s housing enforcement team ensures properties are managed appropriately and licensed in accordance with the Housing Act 2004.
Duncan Lewis Housing Solicitors
Duncan Lewis housing solicitors can advise on a wide range of housing law, including advising developers and self builders on planning permissions and planning appeals.
There are Duncan Lewis offices across England and Wales and our housing team is also able to advise on: