Landlord Fined for Illegally Converting Bungalow into 15-Room HMO in Egham
Egham, Surrey – A landlord has been fined £12,000. He changed a three-bedroom bungalow into a 15-room House in Multiple Occupation in Egham, Surrey. Staines Magistrates’ Court issued the fine after Runnymede Borough Council brought the case.
The Conversion and Its Consequences
Meenu Jetwani, 53, also known as Mona, pleaded guilty to ten charges for the illegal change. Inspectors reported that the living space was unsafe and risked the health of its residents. The bungalow was built for a family. It became a tight space that did not meet basic housing rules.
Inspectors found many problems in the property:
- Health Hazards: Mould covered the bathroom floors. Few smoke alarms put residents at risk.
- Substandard Living Conditions: Some rooms could be reached only by crawling.
- Overcrowding: One small kitchen and two bathrooms served many tenants. The rent ranged from £85 to £125 per week, and some rooms had only camp beds.
- Unsanitary Environment: The garden held piles of garbage that showed deep neglect.
Council inspectors used a warrant for their check. The landlord first refused them entry. He even acted aggressively to block the inspection.
Council Response and Implications
Runnymede Borough Council was angry. The council said tenants were put at risk by careless house work. A council spokesperson said, "This bungalow was in a very poor state. We do not recall another case where a landlord tried to earn so much in this way."
The court also ordered Jetwani to pay a £2,000 surcharge as a penalty for the harm done.
What This Means for Property Investors and Landlords
This case sends a clear signal to property investors and landlords. It shows that the UK has strict rules for houses shared by several people.
HMOs can produce good returns. They also require hard work. Landlords must check that each room meets size rules. They need to run regular safety checks. Such checks help spot risks like mould or fire hazards. A good property also has proper kitchens and bathrooms so tenants can live well.
Conclusion
The fine for Meenu Jetwani acts as a strong warning for landlords. It tells them to follow the rules and keep the homes safe. As property investment grows, knowing and following the law is key. Landlords must keep safety and proper living conditions at the heart of their work. This protects both their properties and the people who live in them.
For more details on housing rules and landlord rules, visit Runnymede Borough Council and HM Government’s Guidance on Houses in Multiple Occupation for full information.
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