Mendip District Council's Private Sector Housing team has successfully imposed a Civil Penalty on a landlord who was operating a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) without a licence.

The landlord did not comply with the requirements of the Housing Act 2004, by operating the property without a licence for a period of 22 months, whilst being occupied with up to six people.

The property was also found to be lacking adequate fire detection, putting the tenants at serious risk of harm.

After extensive investigations, the Council imposed a £5,500 fine on the landlord. If any further offences are committed, a ban could be placed on the landlord in the future.

Cllr Richard Pinnock, Portfolio Holder for Housing Services, said: "Whilst we always prefer to work with landlords and support them to achieve the required standards and meet their legal obligations, we will not shy away from taking strong enforcement action and applying sanctions where they are needed. 

"We are satisfied with this outcome and hope this sends a strong message to deter other landlords from breaching their duties.

"The Council has a responsibility to protect tenants and ensure homes are safe, and our statutory duties allow us to take robust action when landlords are not adhering to the law."

Our Private Sector Housing team are here to help, please call them on 0300 303 8588 or email: [email protected] or visit www.mendip.gov.uk/landlords.