Unlicensed HMO landlord hit with £12,500 penalty in Haringey

The pair have been fined a total of £12,500 for failing to licence the property (located on Clonmell Road, London N17). Enforcement action was also taken for allowing tenants to live in unsafe conditions.

Haringey Council initially received a complaint about damp and mould in the rented home. During their investigations, enforcement officers discovered that the property was operating as an unlicensed ‘Additional’ HMO. An inspection of the property revealed multiple hazards, including inadequate fire protection and dangerous stairs, duly putting tenants at significant risk.

As a result, the property owner and managing agent were issued civil penalty fines for failing to apply for the required HMO licence. The managing agent appealed the penalty to the First Tier Tribunal. However, the Tribunal dismissed the appeal, describing it as misguided, and upheld in favour of Haringey Council.

The managing agent was ordered to pay a £10,000 fine and has been added to the Greater London Authority’s Rogue Landlord and Agent Checker, a public register of landlords and agents fined or convicted of housing offences. The owner remains liable for a separate £2,500 civil penalty.

Legal standards

Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet member for housing and planning and also deputy leader of Haringey Council, said: “This case makes our position absolutely clear. Haringey Council will not tolerate landlords or agents who put residents at risk. Every property must meet legal standards. Those who ignore their responsibilities will face decisive action.”

Williams added: “Our priority is protecting tenants and driving up standards across the private rented sector. We will continue to pursue anyone who fails to provide safe, secure and properly managed homes.”

Following enforcement action, the property has now been licensed. An Improvement Notice issued by Haringey Council has led to all disrepair being addressed. The home now meets required safety standards, ensuring that its tenants live in a safe and compliant environment.