A landlord has been prosecuted for unlawfully evicting and harassing a tenant by, amongst other things, removing the toilet.

The landlord also removed the sink and other bathroom fittings.

Terrence Kermode pleaded guilty to the offence of unlawful eviction and harassment under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977.  At a sentencing hearing at Mold Magistrates Court, it was offered in mitigation that Kermode was 76, had no prior convictions and had pleaded guilty at the first opportunity.   

It heard that Kermode was allowing his daughter to take over the business and that he had ripped out the bathroom in a “moment of madness” in the knowledge that there was rent and bills outstanding.

The Magistrates remarked that Kermode’s behaviour was “outrageous” and that he had essentially broken into someone’s home, and removed belongings and a bathroom, which is completely unacceptable for anyone, especially a landlord of 30 years.  

In accordance with the pre-sentencing report, the Magistrates handed down a fine of £1000 and a court surcharge of £100 and awarded full costs of £2,623.14 to be paid by Kermode to Flintshire council.

A council spokesperson says: “We believe everyone has the right to live in a home which is in good repair, safe, warm and secure. Whilst we aim to reduce the health effects of poor housing conditions through a combination of advice and financial assistance, occasionally we deal with matters that are so serious a prosecution is necessary.

“This successful prosecution sends out a clear message to landlords that Flintshire County Council will do all it can to protect its residents from unlawful eviction and harassment.  It reflects Flintshire’s commitment to ensuring homes in the private rented sector are properly managed and that tenants are afforded the security that they need during the current cost of living crisis.”