A landlord in Gateshead has been hit with a fine of just under £7,000 over the poor condition of three flats he rented out.

After a council inspection of his Bensham property, an Improvement Notice was served on Anthony Hall of Ravensworth Road, Birtley, requiring him to replace missing handrails on staircases, repair defective windows and external walls, and rectify a number of electrical hazards.

Poor condition

His lack of response to the Notice prompted council officers to then inspect his other properties in Birtley and two more were found to be in poor condition with damp, mould, defective windows and ventilation, missing staircases handrails, electrical hazards and fire safety issues (main image).

The council subsequently issued Hall with two more Housing Act 2004 Improvement Notices, which he also failed to act upon.

The local council initiated legal action and South Tyneside Magistrates Court subsequently found that Hall, an experienced landlord with several properties, had ‘failed to engage with officers’ or to have the work carried out and comply with the Notices.

We will not tolerate landlords that willingly let substandard properties that risk the health and wellbeing.”

He was fined £1,115 for each property (£3,345) plus a £446 surcharge and £3,200 costs.

Councillor Chris Buckley, Cabinet Member for Housing, says: “We hope this successful prosecution acts as a warning to landlords within Gateshead.

“We value the contribution that a well-managed private rented sector makes to Gateshead, but we will not tolerate landlords that willingly let substandard properties that risk the health and wellbeing of local residents.

“Everyone has a right to live in a safe and warm home, and we will continue to take robust action against any landlords who disregard their responsibilities.”

Read more about landlord fines.