Fines have been issued for two unlicensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Gravesend.
The council’s Private Sector Housing Team is responsible for driving up the quality of private rented homes across the borough. They have been targeting unlicensed HMOs following a successful amnesty last year which saw them support landlords and owners in becoming registered.
As a result of the council’s enforcement action, the landlord of an unlicensed HMO in Granville Road, Gravesend, was fined £10,000, and the managing agent of a similar Parrock Street, property was fined £17,500.
Cllr Karina O’Malley, Cabinet Member for Housing Services, said the cases served as a warning to others to get their houses in order.
She said: “We have an excellent relationship with the majority of private landlords in Gravesend who work hard to ensure their tenants live in safe, suitable accommodation.
“The licensing system for HMOs ensures properties are meeting all the necessary safety requirements around gas and electrical installations and fire safety precautions. It means those living in them can be as sure as possible their homes are safe.
“Last year we worked hard to reach landlords across the borough to make sure they had the appropriate licences in place, and to work with those who needed our help in getting them.
“Now, for the good of local residents, we are pursuing those who don’t have licences.
“These two cases are just the start – we are actively investigating others and will follow-up on intelligence received.”
The fines paid by those responsible for the homes go towards further work in the area, including landlord training and support, as well as funding further enforcement action.
Cllr O’Malley added that it isn’t too late for those responsible for HMOs to have them registered, saying: “I would strongly encourage them to contact the team, either directly or via the HMO information page on our website.
“We would much rather every HMO in the borough be certified as safe rather than have to pursue landlords and agents with enforcement action.”
Check if your property is classed as a HMO using our online form or you can call 01474 337960.
Find out more about HMO's, including reporting unlicensed properties and applying for a licence.
If you are a tenant with concerns over whether a property is registered or not, you can contact the Private Sector Housing Team in confidence on the number above.