Landlord and his letting agencies lose appeal against £105k fine
Summary
A London landlord and associated letting agencies have lost an appeal at the First-tier Property Tribunal over penalties linked to non-compliance with Waltham Forest’s selective licensing scheme. The tribunal upheld £105,000 in fines across six test properties, rejecting arguments about licence duration, liability, and alleged double punishment.
Why it matters
This case reinforces the enforcement risk around selective licensing for landlords and managing agents, including the possibility of penalties being upheld against both parties. Surveyors advising on rented stock, due diligence, or portfolio risk should note the compliance implications where properties fall within local licensing schemes.
Key points
- Appeal against £105,000 in fines was dismissed by the First-tier Property Tribunal.
- The case concerned non-compliance with Waltham Forest’s selective licensing scheme.
- The tribunal rejected arguments that only the agent should be fined and that dual penalties amounted to double punishment.
- Offences were found to have occurred with the landlord’s consent and connivance.
- The decision may have wider implications for additional properties linked to the landlord’s portfolio.
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