A landlord had a fine of £12,500 upheld after he abandoned an appeal against his conviction for failing to license a house in multiple occupation (HMO).
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Sajad Iqbal, of Bailey Street, was prosecuted by Newport City Council and was convicted in his absence at Abergavenny magistrates court. He was also ordered to pay costs of £923 to the council.
He appealed but withdrew the appeal at a hearing in Newport Crown Court. His appeal against other offences relating to the same property, also in Bailey Street, was allowed.
Iqbal had a previous conviction for failing to license a HMO in 2011.
Councillor Gail Giles, cabinet member for licensing and statutory functions, said: “This is an important safety law to ensure that only properly maintained and run properties are let to the public.
“The authority provides advice and assistance in order to enable landlords to comply with legislation; however we will not hesitate to prosecute those who choose to ignore the law.”
Landlords who rent out properties to three or more people, who are not part of the same family, need a HMO licence from the council. Failure to obtain a licence is a criminal offence and carries a maximum fine of £20,000.
