A landlord has been fined £32,723 after being prosecuted for multiple offences relating to the safety of tenants in a rented property.

Sarah Goldsmith, 42, pleaded guilty to 20 offences presented to Watford Magistrates' court by Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, in breach of the Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation Regulations.

The property in West View, Hatfield, Herts is described as a 'High Risk HMO' due to having nine bedrooms and a high turnover of tenants who only stay for short periods of time.

Cllr Roger Trigg, Executive Member for Planning, Housing and Community, said: "We are delighted with this outcome which is a great result. These offences related to fire safety and if not dealt with, could have led to serious injury and even death.

"To protect the safety of tenants in the borough, the council wants to work with private landlords and agents as much as possible. We regard prosecution as a last resort, but we would like to send out a clear message to landlords and agents who do not respond to the advice, information and support that we provide; that we will take enforcement action against those who do not comply with the law." 

The charges included several issues relating to fire safety at the property as there were no fire doors to any of the rooms, including the kitchen, and the fire extinguishers were out of date. The court also heard that gas and electric controls and meters were locked away and not accessible to the tenants, the only access being through the caretaker, and the heating only operated from 6pm-6am, even though the tenants' rents were inclusive of bills.

Other offences included failing to provide a Gas Safe Certificate, disrepair to most of the bedroom windows, disrepair to the external roof and severe damp and mould on the walls due to a blocked shower.

The Court imposed fines of £19,700 and ordered Ms Goldsmith to pay costs to the council of £12,773.  A Victim Surcharge of £250 was also ordered.