Escape routes blocked by landlord (From Oxford Mail)

Escape routes blocked by landlord

10:30am Friday 14th October 2011 in News

A LANDLORD has been prosecuted for blocking escape routes and failing to ensure a constant supply of electricity at a home he rented out.

Sikander Hayat pleaded guilty to seven charges of failing to comply with regulations in respect of houses in multiple occupation.

He was fined a total of £9,500 over the Glamis Place property in Banbury.

Banbury Magistrates’ Court heard he failed to ensure that there was a working fire alarm system and a constant electricity supply.

He also failed to maintain unobstructed escape routes and make appropriate arrangements for disposal of refuse.

Hayat, of Causeway, Banbury, was prosecuted by Cherwell District Council and had to pay the authority’s costs of £300.

Lead member for housing Debbie Pickford said: “The council is committed to dealing with unsatisfactory housing.

“We work with landlords whenever we can, and the majority of our enforcement work is achieved informally. Where we find serious breaches of the law, or in cases where landlords or managers repeatedly fail to do what the law requires, as in this case, we will take them to court.”