A landlord who failed to license an HMO in London has been fined over £11,000. 

Pellumb Mazreku of Hainault, received the fine and appealed to the First Tier Tribunal Property Chamber. However, the tribunal upheld the fine and dismissed the appeal. 

The fine followed numerous complaints to Redbridge council about newly developed buildings. The complaints included claims that the houses were built to accommodate developer employees and contained multiple tenants.

On inspection, the council found fire safety and overcrowding hazards. The property was occupied by 12 people (eight adults and four children under the age of five). 

HMOs are regarded as higher-risk properties in relation to fire and there were no fire detectors (smoke detectors) or fire doors (fire protection) and insufficient refuse bins.

A council spokesperson says: “Mandatory HMO licensing applies borough-wide, and for good reason—it protects tenants and ensures homes meet legal standards. There are no shortcuts and excuses here in Redbridge, and this case reinforces that we will follow up on complaints and take action where needed. 

“Most private landlords in Redbridge act responsibly following the rules to ensure their tenants live in safe, clean, and comfortable conditions. However, a few bypass legal obligations and exploit vulnerable people for profit. 

“Under our licensing schemes, we’re working closely with private landlords to make sure they obtain the necessary licenses for their properties.  I would encourage any landlord, who has not renewed their license for HMO to act immediately before the Council takes enforcement action.”