Stotfold landlord fined AGAIN for serious hazards in rented property

Melvyn Bruce, of Hitchin Road, Stotfold, was convicted in his absence at Luton Magistrates’ Court last week.

It follows an investigation by Central Bedfordshire Council which discovered that the flat, also in Hitchin Road, had insufficient heating, electrical hazards and risks associated with the stairs.

Bruce ­had previously been found guilty at Bedford Magistrates’ Court in August 2016 for similar offences following complaints from tenants about their living standards.

Officers from the council’s Housing Solutions Team served an Improvement Notice on the landlord in April 2017 after discovering serious hazards at the property.

When they reinspected the flat in September 2017, they discovered that the landlord had failed to comply with the Improvement Notice within the time specified.

After being found guilty to an offence under the Housing Act 2004, Bruce was ordered to pay a total of £2,446 in fines, costs and a victim surcharge.

Councillor Carole Hegley, Executive Member for Adults, Social Care and Housing Operations, said: “Cases like these can be notoriously difficult to investigate and bring to court, so I am delighted at this excellent result and that the landlord has been brought to justice.

“Residents who rent privately should be able to do so with confidence that the conditions do not present a hazard to their health and safety

“That is why we will continue to pursue landlords and managing agents who fail to rectify hazards, as well as those who fail to produce the correct legal documentation.”

If you are worried about poor conditions within privately rented accommodation, email [email protected] or call 0300 300 8302.