Hastings council has taken a landlord to court for failing to obtain a gas safety certificate, which is required by law for rented properties. 

It is not naming the landlord but the council says the court case resulted in him being fined £726.

“Due to the health and safety concerns gas can pose to the occupiers of a property, it is essential gas is checked regularly by a qualified engineer” says the council.

It adds: “Failure to meet these safety requirements and ensure rented accommodation is at a good standard will result in the council’s housing team taking appropriate action.”

And a spokesperson for the authority states: “Ensuring rented accommodation across the borough is fit for purpose and safe is a priority for our council. 

“The vast majority of landlords provide exceptional accommodation and go above and beyond to make the necessary improvements to their properties.

“Sadly, in this case this landlord did not comply with the law and failed to work with the council. To ensure the tenant’s safety the council took the necessary action. This saw the landlord taken to court where they were issued with a fine following a guilty plea.”