Big fine and conditional discharge for ignoring Enforcement Notice
Summary
A property owner in Dagenham has been ordered to pay more than £29,000 after failing to comply with a council Enforcement Notice requiring an unlawfully subdivided property to be restored to a single dwelling. The case resulted in a conditional discharge, a confiscation order and costs awarded to the local authority, highlighting the consequences of ignoring planning enforcement action.
Why it matters
Surveyors may encounter properties affected by unauthorised subdivision or other planning breaches during inspections, valuations or due diligence. The case underlines the importance of identifying enforcement issues early, as non-compliance can lead to significant financial and legal consequences for owners.
Key points
- Barking and Dagenham council found a Dagenham property had been unlawfully split into two dwellings.
- An Enforcement Notice required the property to be returned to a single dwelling.
- After repeated visits showed no compliance, legal proceedings were brought.
- The owner received a 12-month conditional discharge and a £29,523.32 confiscation order.
- The council was also awarded £2,000 in costs.
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