21 Jan 25
Are you delusional like this landlord was?
The landlord who decided to take this all the way to a hearing was delusional.
Licensing is strict liability so not being told by the council was absolute nonsense as was any statement repeating the same.
Having been issued an improvement notice that you have not appealed is stupidity to then argue against it.
Professional advice after the inspection would have avoided much of the proceedings and costs for the landlord.
Of course too many landlords seek the advice of generalists who learn at their expense and take them to hearings that should never happen.
The renters rights bill will not resolve this and we will see more enforcement against landlords and letting agents who are delusional and not prepared to invest in the time training and education needed to rent property in 2025 and onwards.
Housing offences are criminal offences yet landlords and letting agents continue to attempt to defend themselves whilst continuing further incriminate themselves.
Denial of reality is no defence strategy.
The tenants were entitled to their award and quite rightly so because this landlord had disrespect and disregard for them and the law and it is very clear they did not understand that they were basically fighting themself.
HERE IS THE STORY
Three London students residing in a £1.2 million flat near Hyde Park were awarded over £20,000 in rent repayments after a tribunal found the property to be a “danger to their health” due to cold, damp, mould, and inadequate fire safety measures.
The landlord, Osazee, was ordered to pay £8,729 to Closa, £5,763 to Schwartz, and £6,393 to Darwent.
The tribunal determined that Mr. Osazee, who managed multiple properties, had operated the flat without the required House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licence for over 18 months, exposing tenants to hazardous living conditions.
An inspection by a Westminster environmental health officer in April 2023 revealed significant issues, including a defective and costly heating system, substantial heat loss from windows, uncontrollable draughts, and mould growth.
Despite the landlord’s claims of unawareness regarding the licensing requirement, the tribunal held that, as a professional landlord, he should have been cognizant of his legal obligations.
This case underscores the critical importance of landlords ensuring their properties meet health and safety standards and possess the necessary licences. Failing to do so not only endangers tenants but also exposes landlords to significant financial and legal repercussions.
Professional advice is vital.
These disputes could all have been solved with the right person helping them.
Get in touch.
If you receive a notice from a council or a tenant seek professional advice before you make any response.
That last paragraph is the most important of everything written above.
