Landlord to pay out £25,000 over unlicensed homes

A landlord has been forced to pay more than £25,000 for failing to get licences for six of his homes.

Kamran Adil's properties in Blackhall Colliery, near Peterlee in County Durham, had problems including electrical hazards and structural concerns.

Durham County Council uses selective licences to regulate landlords and ensure properties are maintained to a high standard.

Ted Murphy, the council's housing standards manager, said it was the second time this year Adil had been convicted for not having licences for his properties.

"Since the scheme came into effect in 2022, we have taken all reasonable steps to ensure Mr Adil complied with his legal requirements," he said.

"Despite having previously faced conviction for not obtaining a licence, Mr Adil failed to adhere to his legal responsibility, meaning further action has been taken."

The selective licence scheme covers 103 areas in County Durham and aims to improve the standards of privately rented homes and reduce anti-social behaviour.

The scheme came into force in April 2022 but Adil failed to apply for the licences, despite being warned by council officers.

He was prosecuted on Wednesday at Peterlee Magistrates' Court, which heard his Blackhall Colliery properties were in significant disrepair.

They suffered from excess cold, damp and mould, electrical hazards, a lack of carbon monoxide alarms, structural concerns, fire safety, pests and refuse.

He was fined £18,000 and ordered to pay a £7,200 victim surcharge and £350 in costs.

"No-one should have to live in substandard, unsafe accommodation which is why we proactively work to hold landlords to account," said Mr Murphy.

"We hope this prosecution serves as a warning that we will not cease in taking action against those who fail to fulfil their duties as a landlord."

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