Landlord Fined for Illegally Converting Egham Bungalow into 15-Room House of Multiple Occupation
Egham, Surrey – 28 November 2024
A ruling from Staines Magistrates’ Court fined a local landlord £12,000. The court found that he changed a three-bedroom bungalow into a 15-room house where many people live. Runnymede Borough Council led the case. They found many unsafe conditions in the home on St Pauls Road. The report showed problems that put lives at risk and broke rules meant to keep homes safe.
Background of the Case
Meenu Jetwani, 53, also known as Mona, faced ten charges for changing the building. Inspectors called the home “appalling.” They saw mould in the bathroom and not enough smoke detectors in the rooms. Some rooms were hard to reach, with a few in the loft and eaves where tenants had to crawl. People paid between £85 and £125 every week for rooms that did not meet basic standards.
Legal Ramifications
The court’s decision is a strong act against rule violations. Runnymede Borough Council tried to get a search warrant to see inside the home. Jetwani and her brother slowed the search. One incident made the council believe that the landlord planned to make a baby a problem to stop the visit. A council spokesman said that the poor condition of the home put lives at risk when a family home became just a way to make money.
Broader Implications for the HMO Market
This ruling comes as councils check homes more closely. Many reports say that overcrowded homes cause more complaints. Landlords who change properties must follow the rules. Each room should be big enough and share proper facilities like kitchens and bathrooms for all tenants. Not following these rules can bring both heavy fines and more legal charges.
Conclusion
The case against Meenu Jetwani shows why following housing rules is very important. Local authorities work to keep living places safe and fair. Those who own or plan to invest in homes like these must study the rules so that tenants can live in safe houses. As council checks rise, knowing these rules is key for anyone thinking about property work.
Further Reading and Resources
For more insights on HMOs and their legal side, check these links:
- Runnymede Borough Council – Housing Advice
- UK Government – Houses in Multiple Occupation
- BBC News – Housing Crisis Impact
The case reminds us that when one changes a family home, many rules must be followed to keep it safe and healthy for all.
Disclaimer: This article has been generated by AI based on the latest news from Google News sources. While we strive for accuracy, we recommend verifying key details from official reports.
