Agent involved in court case about overdue safety work
Summary
A lettings agency became involved in enforcement action and a tribunal appeal after a landlord failed to complete electrical safety remedial works within the required timeframe. The tribunal upheld a £7,500 fine, finding that serious defects remained unresolved well beyond the legal deadline and that the penalty was appropriate.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors may encounter similar compliance issues when inspecting rental stock or advising landlords and agents on statutory safety obligations. The case underlines the importance of timely EICRs, prompt remedial action, and clear evidence of compliance where hazards are identified.
Key points
- West Suffolk Council fined Forthbrook Ltd after electrical defects were not addressed within 28 days.
- The EICR identified seven code 1 defects and 14 code 2 defects at a rental property.
- The council served urgent and remedial notices after the landlord failed to act in time.
- The tribunal upheld the fine and said it could have been higher.
- The case arose after a tenant complaint about damp and mould prompted a council visit.
Organisations:
West Suffolk Council, Forthbrook Ltd, Cambridgeshire County Court
Regulations:
Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulation 2020, Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), Urgent Remedial Notice, Remedial Notice
Locations:
West Suffolk, Cambridgeshire
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