Landlord Fined for Breaching Fire Safety Regulations in Illegal HMO
A court has fined a landlord in Egham, Surrey for breaking fire safety rules in a converted bungalow made into an illegal House in Multiple Occupation. The sentence shows that fire safety in rental homes remains a serious issue in the UK. This case gives a clear warning to current landlords and future investors to follow the rules.
Details of the Case
Mona Jetwani, 53, stands accused by Runnymede Borough Council after she changed a three-bedroom bungalow into a 15-room unlicensed HMO. Council staff learned of the case from anonymous tips about overcrowding. Their visit uncovered many problems with the home, especially with fire safety.
The council first tried to inspect the property. Jetwani and her brother met the officers with hostility. They even threatened the staff, so the council got a warrant to enter. Inside, the home showed many unsafe conditions.
Inspectors found that the conversion had been done with poor building methods. Many rooms were too small; some measured only 3.48 square metres instead of the required 6.51 square metres for HMO rooms.
Fire Safety Violations
The inspection also found many fire safety issues. The home had too few smoke alarms, and none of them were linked together. Fire safety was further compromised by the gaps in the plasterboard walls that should have separated the rooms. One alarm call was the placement of a refrigerator under the stairs. This spot must stay clear to allow an easy escape in case of fire.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
After the investigation, Jetwani admitted ten charges under the Housing Act 2004. The charges included running a licensable HMO without a license, not providing a gas safety report, and breaking fire safety rules and room size laws.
On 27 November 2024, District Judge Cooper gave his verdict at Staines Magistrates’ Court. He noted that the tenants were low income, did not speak English well, and were at risk. Jetwani knew the home did not meet the basic living standards even if the rules were not fully clear to her.
In the end, Jetwani faced a fine of £12,000 and a victim surcharge of £2,000. The fine did not reach the original £18,000 because she pleaded guilty at an early stage.
Implications for the HMO Market
The case has sent a strong message within Runnymede Borough Council. A spokesperson warned that landlords who break the law put lives at risk. "People running HMOs need to follow the rules for a good reason," the spokesperson said. They stressed that future HMO investors must check all housing rules, especially fire safety laws, to keep everyone safe.
The council asks the public to report any HMO that seems unsafe. They promise to act when safety is in danger.
Conclusion
The case against Mona Jetwani reminds landlords that they must follow the rules designed to protect tenants. With more checks on rental homes, future investors must plan carefully to keep their properties legal and safe. By doing this, they not only protect their money but also help to keep the housing market safe.
For more information on HMOs and fire safety rules, landlords and investors should contact official housing resources and authorities.
Sources
- Fire Protection Association. Fire safety breaches charge brought against illegal HMO landlord
- Runnymede Borough Council. Council Reports on Illegal HMO Operations
- Housing Act 2004. Guidance on Houses in Multiple Occupation
This article shows the need to keep rental homes safe and why following fire safety rules is vital.
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.
