Council successful in defending appeal against major housing offences

07 October 2024

West Northamptonshire Council's (WNC) Private Sector Housing Team has successfully defended an appeal in Northampton Crown Court in relation to a significant case involving unlicensed houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). 

The original prosecution, which took place in December 2022 at Northampton Magistrates Court, saw two defendants fined £275,000 and £35,000 respectively for breaches under the Housing Act 2004. Both defendants had appealed their sentences to the Crown Court, with the hearing taking place on 20 September 2024.

Mr Recorder A Jack, who presided over the appeal, dismissed the case and upheld the Council's stance. In his judgment, he emphasised that this was a “criminal enterprise involving houses in multiple occupation” and condemned the dangerous fire safety violations involved, stating they were both 'illegal and dangerous, posing a risk to the lives of tenants and neighbours." He described the case as an “extremely serious instance of illegal enterprise.”

Upon resentencing, Mr Recorder Jack increased the fines significantly, raising the original £275,000 penalty to £329,524 and the £35,000 penalty to £73,524. Costs were also awarded to the Council, and the defendants have been given one month to pay the fines.

The case, which began in 2019, demanded considerable resources and collaboration, involving properties that were unlicensed and posed serious safety risks, putting tenants' health and wellbeing in direct danger. The team’s intelligence-driven enforcement strategy targeted areas where intelligence identified significant risks.

This successful outcome serves as a strong reminder that West Northamptonshire Council will not hesitate to take firm action against those who operate outside the law and endanger the safety of tenants and work is ongoing to ensure the quality of all housing across West Northamptonshire meets the required standard.

“This case underscores our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of residents in West Northamptonshire. The outcome demonstrates that we will take firm action against those who neglect their responsibilities and put tenants at risk.

“I’m incredibly proud of the Private Sector Housing Team’s dedication and their successful efforts in tackling such serious breaches. Our priority is to create safe, secure homes for all residents in our area, and we will continue to use every resource available to achieve that."Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing at WNC