Thomas James Lettings has been fined £10,346.67 for failing to apply for a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licence in Hungerton Street. Mr Reynolds, the landlord of the property and director of Thomas James Lettings was fined £5947.67
Under the Housing Act 2004 it became compulsory to obtain a licence for houses three storeys or taller with five or more persons in two or more households. Since April 2006 all houses which fall under this category have had to apply for a HMO licence.
The case came about after an investigation by the Community Protection’s Environmental Health team found that the property was not properly licenced.
Councillor David Liversidge, Portfolio Holder for Housing Delivery, said: “Mr Reynolds and Thomas James Lettings Limited broke the law and this may affect their reputation in addition to the heavy financial penalty.”
In summing up, the District Judge Mr Devas said: “The aim of the legislation is to ensure the safety of HMOs. It is vital that landlords and property agencies comply fully to achieve this aim. It is equally important that courts impose realistic penalties when dealing with failure in compliance.”
Mr Devas did note that the property was not dangerous and the lack of licence wasn’t intentional.
Thomas Reynolds, Director of Thomas James Lettings Limited apologised unreservedly for the oversight adding : “Unfortunately the HMO license was not applied for, only due to a clerical error. All of the properties offered through Thomas James Lettings Ltd that require licenses, do indeed have the required documentation.”
He also said: “ A simple but unfortunate oversight has led to the question over trust. I believe that there is no reason to have anything other than trust in Thomas James Lettings Ltd. We endeavour to maintain high standards at all times and have continued to uphold excellent relationships with our Landlords andTenants.”
Oliver Whitfield-Miocic
Picture: © Google 2011
Tags: Fine, HMO, House in Multiple Occupation, Hungerton Street, nottingham, Student Housing, Thomas James Lettings, Thomas Reynolds
