26th June 2015
A Hatfield landlord has been ordered to pay more than £17,000 in fines and costs after pleading guilty at St Albans Magistrates’ Court to 23 offences relating to a house in multiple occupation (HMO) that he owns and manages.
Bobby Fasogbon, 46, of Gaydon Lane, Colindale, London was ordered to pay £12,000 fines, a victim surcharge of £120 and Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council was awarded full costs of £5199.32.
The charges relate to a property at 9 Chipmunk Chase in Hatfield and included failure to maintain the property in a safe and satisfactory condition, particularly not complying with fire safety regulations, and failure to supply documents to assist the investigation.
Councillor Mandy Perkins, Executive Member for Planning, Housing and Community said: “Just last week, we were successful in prosecuting two Managing Agents for similar offences and this case is another step forward in a significant series of investigations by our housing team.
“We hope this set of prosecutions will serve as another stark warning to any landlord who compromises residents’ safety.
“I very much encourage landlords in the borough to join the council run scheme, PAL, which makes it easier for landlords to understand and meet high standards of management practice.”
The Partnership Accreditation for Landlords (PAL) scheme recognises landlords and agents who meet their legal obligations but now also includes a ‘gold’ standard for those who go above and beyond to provide quality homes. This new standard was launched at an event on 10 June at the Mercure Hatfield Oak Hotel.
Explore the PAL website to find out more or call 01707 357 366