‘Rogue landlords’ to be slapped with £30k fines

‘Rogue landlords’ in North East Lincolnshire will be slapped with fines of up to £30,000 if they do not keep their properties in shape.

Senior councillors approved the plans in an effort to improve housing standards in the region and “expose” those who break the law.

The move comes after the government introduced amendments in 2016 to the Housing Act which means local authorities can now issue fines.

It means North East Lincolnshire Council will be able to fine landlords who breach the act up to £30,000 depending on the severity of the offence and their track record.

Offences include failing to deal with overcrowding, failing to improve the condition of a property and not licensing a home of multiple occupancy.

The move is seen as an alternative to prosecuting and will help to deter other landlords, according to the council.

North East Lincolnshire Council’s Cabinet approved the plans.

The authority said the changes are about improving the region’s homes and “exposing” landlords who break the law.

Councillor Peter Wheatley, cabinet member for housing, said that some landlords needed to be tackled.

“Good housing is the key to good health and well being,” he said.

“Bad landlords have got to be brought into line and I feel as though this piece of legislation is a welcome move.”

Meanwhile, council leader, Ray Oxby, said the plans look to speed up the time it takes to tackle those who fall foul of the law.

“This is a fast track process,” he said.

“It means that we do not have to get bogged down with the courts and the time it takes.

“This is for the minority of those who do not take on board their social responsibilities.”

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