Stoke-on-Trent landlord handed £11.8k fine for running HMO without licence

A landlord has been fined £11,800 for running a house of multiple occupation (HMO) without a licence.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council said a tenant complained in 2022 about Lee Challinor's Liverpool Road property.

Council officers said it was in a poor condition with bathrooms that failed to meet minimum standards.

Challinor pleaded guilty to operating a licensable HMO without a licence and breaching a number of management regulations.

Officers also found evidence of a fly infestation as well as a build-up of waste and sludge in the backyard.

At a hearing at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre on 16 November, Challinor was also ordered to pay an additional £2,000 costs and a £195 victim surcharge.

Councillor Chris Robinson said the authority took complaints seriously.

"We are pleased with the outcome of this case and hope it serves as a reminder to private landlords operating in Stoke-on-Trent of their responsibilities to provide safe, quality homes," he said.

He urged any residents who experienced problems with privately-rented homes to get in touch with the council.

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