Letting agency Student-Haus has been fined £13,160 for a litany safety measures at an HMO including failing to maintain all means of escape from fire and failing to maintain all common parts and ensure they are in a safe and working condition.

The letting agency, which is based in Salford, claims to be the ‘North West’s leading student accommodation search and property management agency’.

Adhering to rules

But despite advising landlords on its website that they ‘are obliged by law to adhere to rules and regulations that ensure your student accommodation is safe,’ it pleaded guilty to all three offences at Tameside Magistrates’ Court.

After the verdict, Salford City Council said it: “Strongly encourages landlords to take immediate action to ensure their properties meet the required standards, focusing on key compliance areas and adopting a proactive management approach.

“This will not only help in avoiding financial penalties but also in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of tenants.”

Negligent landlords who put tenants’ health and safety at risk have no excuse to abandon their legal duties.’

And Councillor Tracy Kelly, Lead Member for Housing and Anti-Poverty stated: “I’m pleased with this outcome, which clearly reinforces the importance that tenants deserve to live in safe and well-managed properties.

“This action by the court and through civil penalty notices issued by the Council should be a warning to other landlords to check they are meeting all their obligations.

“Negligent landlords who put tenants’ health and safety at risk have no excuse to abandon their legal duties. Residents of Salford living in HMOs can be assured that the council will take action against landlords and agents who don’t stick to the rules.”

It’s not the first time Student Haus has hit the headlines for the wrong reasons, and has featured several times in The Neg.