Rogue landlord’s fine upheld by court
Summary
A court has upheld a £7,500 fine imposed by West Suffolk Council on a private landlord after serious electrical safety defects were left unresolved beyond the legal deadline. The case involved an EICR identifying multiple code 1 and code 2 hazards, with the council taking enforcement action after the landlord failed to complete remedial works or seek an extension in time.
Why it matters
The case highlights the enforcement risk where electrical safety defects are not addressed promptly in the private rented sector. Surveyors involved in inspections, condition reporting or advising landlords should note the importance of timely EICRs and swift follow-up on urgent hazards.
Key points
- West Suffolk Council’s £7,500 fine against Forthbrook Ltd was upheld by the court.
- An EICR identified seven code 1 defects and 14 code 2 defects, including exposed cables.
- The landlord missed the 28-day deadline to complete works or apply for an extension under the 2020 regulations.
- The council served urgent and remedial notices after the defects were found.
- The court agreed the penalty was appropriate and could have been higher.
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