Failing to apply for a licence to operate a privately rented house in multiple occupation has cost a Weston-super-Mare landlord hundreds of pounds in fines and costs.
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- Council: North Somerset Council
- Fine: £440
- Costs: £700
- Total: £1,140
Abdul Hashim of Queens Square, Highbridge appeared before North Somerset magistrates on Tuesday 4 March when he pleaded guilty and was fined £440 for the offence, £44 victim surcharge and £700 costs to the council (a total of £1,184).
In June 2013, North Somerset Council identified the licensable property in Gloucester Street, Weston-super-Mare. Following an inspection of the property and an interview with the owner, Mr Hashim admitted that he had been operating the HMO without the required licence.
Cllr Elfan Ap Rees North Somerset Council’s executive member for housing, said: “This case demonstrates that we will take action against those who are failing to comply with their legal responsibilities in order to provide a level playing field for the majority of good and well-intentioned landlords.
“Ultimately, by failing to declare this property, the owner has been made to pay three times the original licensing fee as a result of fines and costs imposed by the courts and still having to apply.”
