A landlord of a property on Bessingby Road, Bridlington who persistently ignored requests to carry out improvement works on their property has been fined by magistrates.
Gail Christlow of East Road, Bridlington, appeared at Beverley Magistrates Court on Wednesday 11th September 2024. She was found guilty of failing to comply with two improvement notices served under the Housing Act 2004.
The court was told that an inspection of the property on Bessingby Road in Bridlington was made by officers from the East Riding council’s private sector housing team. This was following a complaint from the tenants of the property about the poor condition of the property.
The inspection by housing officers found lack of adequate insulation, penetrating damp causing mould growth, and faulty smoke detectors. These hazards seriously compromised the health and safety of the occupiers, including children.
Christlow as landlord, was responsible for the maintenance of the property. The landlord should have ensured the property was a safe place to live, having been asked by officers to undertake repair works since February 2023.
Following further inspections and requests for the work to be completed, officers found that essential works had not been carried out. Housing Act notices were served upon her, which she failed to comply with within the required time frame.
Christlow pleaded guilty to both offences and ordered to pay a total of £2,400. This comprised of a £1,000 fine, £1,000 costs, and a £400 victim surcharge.
Chris Dunnachie, private sector housing manager at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “Throughout this case officers have advised the landlord of the need to undertake essential repairs”.
“Unfortunately, these requests were ignored which led to the improvement notices being served. Despite these notices, actions were not taken.”.
“The council will take robust action where tenant’s safety is put at risk due to serious hazards from the properties they are living in.”
