News
Enforcement operation by Harrow Council uncovers 17 unlicensed HMOs including death trap HMO in Stanmore
Housing enforcement officers from Harrow Council who visited 32 properties found over half (17) were being operating illegally without the required HMO licence.
In Stanmore, council officers found 28 men crammed in a 4 bedroom death trap property in filthy conditions with no fire escape or smoke alarms. All the occupants were sharing one tiny bathroom and kitchen.
The investigation is ongoing with council officers are trying to track down the landlord who could face prosecution and a hefty fine.
In another property in Edgware, men were found hiding in a shed sandwiched between mattresses. The two storey house had around 15 people living there including three children – the youngest being an 8 month old baby.
Council officers have also uncovered illegally converted outhouses, an overcrowded licensed property and a person sleeping in a storage area who, after refusing officers entry, claimed they were on holiday.
Harrow Council say they will continue to carry out inspections and are reminding landlords and agents to get their properties licensed or face enforcement action.
Cllr Graham Henson, Cabinet member for environment, Harrow Council said:
“No one should ever live in squalor or unsafe homes. Our raids are about making sure properties are safe, and also that landlords and tenants are not taking advantage or operating legally. We always work with landlords to help resolve issues and problems.
“Unfortunately there are some who flout the rules for their own greed and take advantage – and where we find properties in disrepair or rogue landlords and tenants, we take action against them with fines or worse prosecution.”
Our free guide to property licensing requirements in Harrow is available here.
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