A landlord operating a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) has been fined over £1,500 for failing to adhere to the conditions of their licence.
Identified only as Mr Daly, the landlord owns a property in Treforest. This property falls under the council’s Additional Licensing Scheme 2019, which permits it to house a maximum of five individuals living as five separate households.
Following a series of inspections, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council discovered that Daly had breached the regulations and conditions set out in his HMO licence. These inspections revealed a lack of compliance with the specific requirements tied to his licensing obligations.
The council’s findings highlight the importance of adhering to HMO regulations designed to ensure tenant safety and maintain acceptable living standards. Landlords are expected to meet these conditions as part of their responsibility under local licensing schemes.
This case serves as a warning to other landlords operating HMOs, emphasising that failure to comply with legal and regulatory standards can lead to significant financial penalties and possible further legal consequences.
In October 2023, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Environmental Health Officers visited a property in Treforest, which was licensed as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) under the Council’s Additional Licensing Scheme for 2019. The inspection was routine but revealed multiple defects that required immediate attention from the landlord, Mr Daly. The property had been licensed to house up to five individuals from five different households, and the Council’s officers highlighted several issues that needed to be resolved to ensure the property met the necessary health and safety standards.
The defects outlined during this inspection were crucial to ensuring that the property remained habitable and safe for its tenants. Among the issues raised was the failure to provide an openable window of sufficient size on the ground floor, which is essential for proper ventilation. This was considered a significant safety concern as it could affect the air quality inside the property and lead to issues with dampness and condensation, which can pose health risks.
In addition to the ventilation problem, the Environmental Health Officers also found that the front and rear elevations of the property showed signs of deterioration, with flaking paint and render. These issues not only affected the property’s aesthetic appeal but also posed a risk to its structural integrity. Flaking paint and render can lead to further damage over time if left unchecked, particularly in harsh weather conditions.
Another concern was the condition of the wooden front door, which was found to be in poor repair. The door had a gap at the bottom, which could compromise security and allow drafts or rainwater to enter the property. Furthermore, a missing frame was also noted, which further diminished the door’s ability to protect the property from external elements. Such defects are particularly concerning for the safety and comfort of tenants living in the property.
Despite being made aware of the issues during the October 2023 inspection, Daly failed to take appropriate action to rectify the defects. A follow-up inspection was carried out in July 2024, which revealed that the necessary repairs had not been completed. This failure to meet the conditions outlined in the HMO licence prompted the Council to take further action.
The case was subsequently brought to Merthyr Magistrates’ Court, where Mr Daly pleaded guilty to five charges related to the defects and non-compliance with the HMO licence conditions. The court heard the evidence presented by the Council and the Environmental Health Officers, including the failure to address the problems after being given the opportunity to do so. Daly’s defence centred around the argument that inclement weather had prevented him from completing the repairs, but the court did not accept this reasoning.
The court found that the landlord had neglected his duties and failed to ensure the property met the required safety standards for his tenants. Despite his claims, the weather was deemed not to be a valid excuse for failing to complete the repairs within the allotted time. The ruling sent a clear message that landlords must take their responsibilities seriously, particularly when it comes to maintaining the safety and habitability of their properties.
As a result of the conviction, Mr Daly was fined over £1,500 for breaching the conditions of his HMO licence. This fine serves as a reminder to all landlords of the importance of complying with housing regulations and ensuring that properties are safe and well-maintained for their tenants. The case also highlights the role of local authorities in holding landlords accountable for their actions and protecting the rights of tenants.
Mr Daly was fined a total of £1,550 after being found guilty of breaching conditions of his HMO licence. This included a £1,000 fine for the defects, £150 in costs, and a £400 surcharge, all of which must be paid within 28 days. The hefty penalty highlights the serious consequences landlords can face for failing to meet their legal obligations.
A spokesperson for the Council emphasised the importance of compliance, stating that the case should serve as a strong warning to landlords throughout the County Borough. They stressed that landlords have a duty to proactively manage their properties and address any issues that arise, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of their tenants. Mr Daly’s blatant disregard for multiple issues, despite several opportunities to make improvements, not only violated the law but also posed a potential risk to the safety of those living in the property.
The Council reiterated its commitment to creating safe and strong communities, making it clear that they will take action against landlords who flout regulations. By holding Mr Daly accountable, the Council aims to send a strong message that they will not tolerate neglectful behaviour from landlords, particularly when it comes to the safety of tenants. The case serves as a reminder that landlords must take their responsibilities seriously and address any problems promptly to avoid legal and financial repercussions.