A rogue landlord in Doncaster has been given a banning order for two-and-a-half years after repeatedly putting tenants’ lives at risk by providing unsafe housing.

Almas Rashid, 39, was banned by The Property Tribunal Service from letting any residential property in England and engaging in letting agency work or property management work for a period of two years and six months.

Doncaster Council took action against Rashid, of Thorne Road, Wheatley Hills, DN2, following a string of prosecutions earlier this year for breaching regulations, failing to comply with improvement notices and not obtaining a houses in multiple occupation (HMO) licence. 

Rashid pleaded guilty to seven offences under the Housing Act 2004 and was ordered to pay £2,800 in total. 

In addition, he also had to pay costs of £2,579.73 and a £40 victim surcharge.

Rashid’s ban will come into play from 14 February 2019, and if he breaches the banning order, penalties can include imprisonment for up to 51 weeks or a court fine – or both – or a civil financial penalty of up to £30,000.

The banning order is believed to be the first in the north of England and only the third achieved by a council since new legislation was introduced in April 2018. 

Cllr Chris McGuinness, cabinet member for communities, the voluntary sector and environment, commented: “The granting of this banning order sends out a clear message to all rogue landlords that our housing enforcement team is at the cutting edge of enforcement.

“When tenants are put at risk through the actions or lack of action by a landlord, we will clamp down by using all the enforcement tools at our disposal.”

Cllr Glyn Jones, deputy mayor and cabinet member for housing and equalities, added: “We will take tough action against landlords who fail to comply with licensing rules as we are determined to drive up housing standards across the borough and improve health and safety for tenants.

“Good quality, safe housing is important for Doncaster residents and our communities.”