A landlord in Cambridge has been ordered to pay £15,000 in fines after one of his properties was found to be breaching multiple safety rules.
The property in question, belonging to Mr Selvakumar Francis, was raided by the city council, who found unsafe living conditions, overcrowding and several breaches of the law. Inspectors found that the fire detection system did not work, and no suitable fire detection equipment in the kitchen or lounge. A fire door was also not present, which meant tenants would not have been aware of any fire and would have been trapped in their rooms if a fire broke out. And the main escape route of the building was obstructed by bikes, a mattress and several packs of laminate flooring.
Executive Councillor for housing, Cllr Kevin Price said: ”This prosecution, and the fine and costs of over £15,000, shows Cambridge City Council's determination to deal with 'rogue landlords' and that if you rent out a property, it must meet safety and amenity standards.
”Being a landlord is a serious responsibility and paramount importance must be given to the safety of tenants.
"The city council will continue to work with landlords and property managers to raise the standard of private rented accommodation and will take all necessary action to protect those living in this city from unsafe housing."
Tom Fletcher, Managing Director of Jackson Fire & Security Cambridge, has urged HMO investors to review their fire safety, “The prosecution of Mr Francis is part of a wider crackdown on the city’s private rented sector since July 2015. The wave of investigations by the City Council has already resulted in more than 200 investigations, with some landlords deemed to longer fit and proper to hold a licence or be involved in the management of HMOs.”
“HMO investors who are worried should give my office a call on 01223 755868, as we’re more than happy to review anyone’s situation and give them free advice about what they must do to protect themselves from this kind of fine.”
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