Landlord who put tenants’ health and safety at risk fined

Kassim Kurbanali (48) pleaded guilty to three offences relating to two properties that he owned and rented out in Brinsworth and Wales.

He appeared at Rotherham Magistrates’ Court on April 4 and pleaded guilty to failing to comply with improvement notices.

Kurbanali, of Manor Road, Wales, was fined £1,400 and also ordered to pay a £140 victim surcharge and £678 costs. 

The court heard RMBC had received complaints from tenants living in the properties about the conditions they were living in and the lack of repairs being undertaken.

Officers from the council’s community protection unit inspected the properties and identified hazards to the health and safety of the tenants living there – including a defective boiler, damp and mould growth, damaged roofing and a leaking toilet.

Enforcement action was taken against Kurbanali and formal improvement notices under the Housing Act 2004 requiring work to be done were served on him. 

The council said despite promises he failed to undertake the repairs and continued to allow his tenants to live in properties which were below the legal housing standard.

RMBC’s assistant director for community safety and streetscene, Karen Hanson, said the action taken demonstrates the seriousness with which the council views the issue of tenant safety.

She added: “Many private sector landlords take their responsibilities seriously and provide good quality accommodation to Rotherham residents.

“However, this prosecution sends out a very strong and clear message to private sector landlords, that Rotherham Council will not tolerate the provision of sub-standard housing. 

“Landlords must understand they are operating a business and are responsible for the quality and the impact that their properties have on their tenants, local communities and health.”

If you are a landlord and unsure of your legal responsibilities contact the council’s community protection unit on 01709 823118 or approach the National Federation of Landlords.