Landlord fined for breaking housing laws

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A landlord who flouted fire safety rules while renting out an unlicensed home to unsuspecting tenants has been fined by magistrates.

Vishal Jain charged five people £2,050 every month to live in his property in Gassiot Road, Tooting, despite the house having safety risks.

The home had too few smoke alarms and no protection to the only available escape route – leaving the occupants dangerously exposed in the event of a fire.

In addition, Jain was breaking the law by renting out the three storey property to five tenants without a house in multiple occupation licence.

Wandsworth Council housing officers became suspicious Jain was breaking the law last year after examining council tax records.

Following property inspections and a thorough investigation, the council launched a prosecution against Jain, who pleaded guilty to operating an unlicensed house in multiple occupation at Richmond Magistrates’ Court on January 24.

Jain, of North Gardens, Tooting, was given a £500 fine and ordered to pay £500 costs and a £15 surcharge.

Wandsworth’s housing spokesman, Councillor Paul Ellis, said: “We are committed to making sure that people are not ripped off or put at risk by rogue landlords.

“The council has a dedicated team of officers who work hard to ensure people are not paying for sub-standard or unsafe accommodation – as was the case here.

“Any landlord who ducks their responsibilities and breaks housing laws should be prepared to be punished in court.”

Under the Housing Act 2004, properties with five or more tenants, of three or more storeys and sharing amenities are required to be licensed.

Landlords or tenants needing advice on safety issues or on the licence required for a home in multiple occupation can contact the council's private housing team on (020) 8871 6171.