Repeat Offender Slum Landlord Fined Far Too Little For Safety Breaches

PasturesNew

This was reported on the radio today, as part of a programme covering landlords/HMOs/new LHA rules/landlords' obligations for fire safety:

On the 18 January 2011 at Bodmin Magistrates Court, Cornwall Council’s Private Sector Housing Team successfully prosecuted Miss Amanda de Gonville Morrison for failing to comply with the conditions of the House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licence for her property at 3 St Marys Road, Newquay; breaches of the HMO Management Regulations; failing to provide required documents and obstructing a Cornwall Council officer from carrying out their inspection.

Miss de Gonville Morrison was convicted of 13 separate offences in total having failed to supply and maintain safety measures at the property including adequate fire alarms; fire doors; emergency escape lighting and other precautionary facilities. In addition certificates confirming the integrity of the electrical installation were not provided as required.

The potential fines for these offences is £62,500, however in consideration of the defendant’s financial position and ill health, a £250 fine was levied with £15 victim surcharge. No costs were awarded to the Council due to the defendant’s impending bankruptcy. Miss de Gonville Morrison advised in her written submission that the property in question was being repossessed.


She also breached her licence conditions by failing to declare to Cornwall Council her conviction on the 16 June 2008 by Gloucester City Council for operating a licensable HMO without a licence, having implications on her “fit and proper” status to hold a licence.

http://www.cornwallcommunitynews.co.uk/wp/2011/01/19/slum-landlords-250-fine/

mynameisdave

In regards to her financial position? Why not fine her more and put a charging order on the property? Or even force her to sell it!