A Manchester based landlord has been prosecuted by Hull City Council for allowing the property he owns to become in a poor condition.

Prosecution
[relatedPosts title=”Related Posts”]

On 1 November, Mr Andrew David Howcroft, Knowles Street, Radcliffe, Manchester, was prosecuted at Hull Magistrates Court in his absence. Mr Howcroft was fined £600, along with a victim surcharge of £60, and costs of £445 bringing the total to £1,105.

The prosecution was related to failing to comply with a notice served under section 80 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 that related to the poor condition of a property he owns on Irene Grove, Carrington Street, Hull.

A concerned resident brought the problem of excess waste and strong odours coming from the front yard of the property to the attention of the council’s Neighbourhood Nuisance team.

The Neighbourhood Nuisance team made several attempts to contact Mr Howcroft but no response was ever received. The council, therefore, had to remove the waste in default and proceeded with legal action.

Councillor John Hewitt, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhoods and Communities, said:

“Many landlords act responsibly for the properties but it is always not satisfactory when a small minority fail to ensure the houses they own, are not kept up to an acceptable standard.”

Jamie Cass, Neighbourhood Nuisance Officer, added:

“It is disappointing that this private owner failed to engage with Hull City Council at any stage, and legal action was necessary. However, we are pleased that we are able to take action on behalf of the local residents who shouldn’t have to put up with such problems.”