A landlord is facing a fine approaching £7,000 for failing to license a rented property.

A landlord-owned company – Prosquare Limited – pleaded guilty to operating a rented property without the required licence after a prosecution by Sefton council.

The company was fined £6,000, reduced to £4,000 in the light of its guilty plea. A £1,600 victim surcharge and £1,000 costs bring the total to £6,600.

A council spokesperson says: “Selective and Additional HMO Licensing schemes help the council improve the management of privately rented properties and make sure tenants have safe and secure homes.

“This successful prosecution shows that landlords who fail to meet their responsibilities can face serious financial consequences.”

Approaching 4,000 private rented properties across Sefton are covered by Selective and Additional (HMO) Licensing schemes. 

The authority claims thousands of serious issues, including problems with fire safety, electrical hazards, damp and mould and excess cold have been solved since the council introduced Licensing.