There has been a massive increase in the fines issued to two landlords in relation to a case involving unlicensed HMOs. 

The original prosecution, in December 2022, saw two defendants fined £275,000 and £35,000 respectively for breaches under the Housing Act 2004. Both defendants appealed their sentences to the Crown Court.

Mr Recorder Jack, who presided over the recent appeal, dismissed the case and upheld the West Northamptonshire council’s stance. 

In his judgment, he emphasised that this was a “criminal enterprise involving houses in multiple occupation” and condemned the dangerous fire safety violations involved, stating they were both ‘illegal and dangerous, posing a risk to the lives of tenants and neighbours.” He described the case as an “extremely serious instance of illegal enterprise.”

Upon resentencing, Mr Recorder Jack increased the fines significantly, raising the original £275,000 penalty to £329,524 and the £35,000 penalty to £73,524. Costs were also awarded to the council, and the defendants have been given one month to pay the fines.

A statement from the council says the case, which began in 2019, “demanded considerable resources and collaboration, involving properties that were unlicensed and posed serious safety risks, putting tenants’ health and wellbeing in direct danger.”

A spokesperson says: “This case underscores our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of residents in West Northamptonshire. The outcome demonstrates that we will take firm action against those who neglect their responsibilities and put tenants at risk. 

“… Our priority is to create safe, secure homes for all residents in our area, and we will continue to use every resource available to achieve that.”