A rogue landlord who forced her tenants to endure a year without heating or hot water has been hit with a hefty fine after council investigators uncovered shocking levels of neglect at her north London property.

Rosa Giddy was ordered to pay more than £5,000 by Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court after pleading guilty to failing to comply with an abatement notice under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Coldest months of the year

The court heard how she had failed to repair a defective gas boiler at her HMO in Mayfield Crescent, Edmonton, for 12 months, leaving residents without heat or hot water during the coldest months of the year.

Enfield Council’s investigation revealed the landlord had also failed to provide mandatory gas and electricity safety certificates when requested, bringing into question the safety of the entire property.

Councillor Susan Erbil, Cabinet Member for Licensing, Planning and Regulatory Services at Enfield Council said: “Her actions and inactivity showed a lack of concern for the welfare of her tenants which could have had catastrophic consequences.”

A blatant disregard for her legal obligations as a landlord.”

And she added: “Despite multiple warnings from the council, the landlord failed to take the necessary actions to remedy the situation, demonstrating a blatant disregard for her legal obligations as a landlord.”

Following the court case, Giddy’s property is no longer operating as an HMO, and authorities have taken steps to prevent her from returning to the rental market. Enfield Council confirmed the landlord will not be considered a “fit and proper person” to hold a license if she attempts to re-let the property.

Cllr Erbil concluded: “This case is a reminder to all landlords of their legal obligations to address deficiencies in their rented properties and the importance of adhering to housing standards and regulations.

“The Council will continue to monitor and enforce housing standards to protect the safety of tenants in the borough.”