A London council has prosecuted the landlord of a property for letting an unlicensed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) and failing to meet fire safety and maintenance standards.
During an inspection in May 2025 of the property on Kilburn, north London, Camden council enforcement officers found five unrelated tenants living in the property – therefore requiring a HMO license.
Officers also identified multiple hazards including the lack of a carbon monoxide alarm, items blocking the fire escape, and insufficient fire safety doors to the flat entrance, kitchen and bedrooms.
They also found significant disrepair and mould growth in the bathroom.
Benjamin George Wilson, of Barnet, did not appear at Highbury Magistrates Court oand was found guilty in his absence of five offences committed under the Housing Act 2004.
These related to letting an unlicensed HMO and failing to comply with multiple regulations under section 234 of the Act.
Wilson was ordered to pay a total of £15,872. £2,500 for each of the five offences, a surcharge of £2,000 and prosecution costs of £1,372.
A council spokesperson says: “This landlord profited from residents living in dangerous conditions and failed to comply with clear legislation. I’m pleased that he’s been handed this fine thanks to the robust work of our enforcement officers.
“Everyone deserves to live in a home that is safe and secure.
“With over a third of households in Camden privately renting, we will not hesitate to take action against landlords who fail to meet important safety and management standards for our residents.”
This article is taken from Landlord Today