Rogue Landlord Fined £43,000 for Breaching Planning Controls in Wandsworth
The court fined director Bernard Margulies of BMR Hemini Ltd over £43,000 for breaking planning rules in Wandsworth. The case shows how landlords and property developers face legal actions when they run Houses in Multiple Occupation.
Background of the Case
BMR Hemini Ltd runs over 200 London properties. The company buys houses and changes them to HMOs to get more rent. Their work needs close attention to local planning laws.
In 2022, the firm bought a property in the center of Putney. They planned to open more HMOs by doing major upgrades. They skipped the planning application, and local residents complained about the work.
Planning Enforcement Actions
Residents’ complaints made Wandsworth Council act. The council gave an enforcement notice to tear down the unapproved extension. The council later saw more problems after BMR Hemini tried to apply for planning permission after the work ended.
Even as legal talks went on, the firm filled the building with tenants. When a Government Inspector dismissed their appeal, the firm said they could not remove the tenants. The council did not accept this excuse.
Legal Proceedings and Fines
On March 24, 2025, the Wimbledon Magistrates Court found Margulies and BMR Hemini Ltd guilty of not following the enforcement notice. It is a breach under the Town and Country Planning Act. The court set a fine of £16,000, required the company to pay legal fees of £23,554, and added a victim surcharge of £3,600. Judge Chris Waller scolded the landlord for letting tenants stay when he knew of the enforcement. His words showed that the court saw the act as a lack of respect for planning laws and for the community’s welfare.
Council’s Response and Future Implications
Simon Hogg, the Leader of Wandsworth Council, said the case shows a wider problem in the rental market. He noted that some players drop standards to gain profit. "This case sends a clear message: we will not stand for planning breaches here in Wandsworth that hurt the neighbours," he said.
For property investors, especially those with HMOs, this case is a strong reminder to follow local planning rules. Getting all needed permissions before changing rental homes matters. It keeps investments safe and builds trust with the community and local authorities.
Conclusion
Bernard Margulies and BMR Hemini Ltd now face the cost of breaking planning rules. For landlords in the HMO field, following planning laws is not only a legal duty but also a key part of steady property management. The costs of ignoring the rules can be high in money and reputation.
As the market changes and local councils inspect more closely, knowing and meeting rules will be key for property investors.
Sources
- South London News, "Rogue landlord fined £43,000 for breaching planning controls," April 4, 2025.
- Wandsworth Council, "Planning Enforcement Notices," Accessed October 2023.
- UK Government, "Town and Country Planning Act 1990," Accessed October 2023. For more on property management and HMO best practices, visit GOV.UK or see The National Landlords Association.
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.
