Crown Court increases penalties in houses in multiple occupation case after defendants appeal original fines

Two defendants have had their fines and costs substantially increased to more than £400,000 following an unsuccessful appeal against a magistrates' ruling in a case concerning unlicensed houses in multiple occupation (HMO).

In December 2022, Northampton Magistrates Court fined the two defendants £275,000 and £35,000 respectively for breaches under the Housing Act 2004.

Both defendants appealed their sentences to the Crown Court, with the hearing taking place on 20 September 2024.

At the Crown Court, Recorder A Jack dismissed the case and upheld the council's stance. Upon resentencing, he 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 Recorder 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.”

The council said the case, which began in 2019, demanded considerable resources and collaboration and involved properties that were unlicensed and posed serious safety risks.

Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing at the council, said: “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."

Adam Carey