A complex investigation has led to the prosecution of a landlord for operating an unlicensed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO).

Since September 2025, Barking and Dagenham council’s Accredited Financial Investigator (AFI) has been assisting Nottingham council on a case.

It involved identifying the individual responsible for a property registered under a charity structure, which – according to the London council – “required extensive and sensitive investigation.”

Following financial analysis, it was established that the person ultimately responsible was actually a serving Nottingham councillor. 

The individual was subsequently charged with failing to licence a HMO.

The councillor failed to attend Nottingham Magistrates’ Court and was found guilty in their absence. 

The court imposed a fine of £7,500, a £2,000 victim surcharge and £1,037.50 in costs – totalling £10,537.50.

Further enquiries also identified that rental income from the property had been paid to a company linked to another councillor. 

This aspect of the case has now been referred back to Nottingham city councillor for further investigation.

A spokesperson for Barking and Dagenham council says: “This was a highly complex investigation, and I want to commend our officer for their professionalism and expertise in supporting partners to bring this case to court. 

“It also highlights the importance of partnership working, and we’re pleased to assist other authorities with their HMO cases.”