Fire safety failings realise prosecution for Harrow HMO landlord

Council officers visited the four-bedroom property located in Edgware following repeated complaints of rubbish piling up outside. Inside the property, inspectors found dangerous living conditions underpinned by a broken boiler and the absence of smoke alarms.

An emergency engineer was called out after a strong smell of gas was detected and officers immediately issued an Emergency Prohibition Order to prevent anyone from living in the property until urgent repairs had been carried out.

Despite several formal requests, Trivedi failed to provide the required fire and electrical safety certificates. These documents are vital for Harrow Council to be able to identify who’s managing the property and ensure tenants are protected at all times.

On 11 December at Willesden Magistrates’ Court, the London Borough of Harrow successfully prosecuted Trivedi. He was found guilty of two offences: failing to provide a fire safety certificate and failing to provide the electrical safety certificate.

Trivedi was​ subsequently fined £5,000, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £2,000 and also ordered to pay a costs contribution amounting to £2,000.

Councillor Pritesh Patel, cabinet member for cleaner streets and public safety at Harrow Council, said: “Our officers work tirelessly to protect tenants and ensure landlords know their responsibilities. When they issue notices, those documents must be taken seriously. This case shows the consequences of ignoring warnings and allowing a property to fall into a dangerous state.”

Patel continued: “Our officers acted swiftly to shut the property down and prosecute Trivedi. No-one is above the law. We will continue to put residents first and take tough action against anyone who places them at risk.”