Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Property Industry Eye. Read the original article for full details.

Landlord Ordered to Repay £8,000 for Unlicensed HMO in Muswell Hill

A landlord has been ordered by the First-tier Tribunal to repay £7,884.84 in rent to a former tenant after it was found that a Muswell Hill property was operated as an unlicensed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The landlord must also pay £341 in application and hearing fees following the tribunal's decision.

The case arose after a tenant, who lived at the Leaside Avenue property between May 2023 and May 2024, applied for a Rent Repayment Order. The tenant discovered that the landlord did not hold the required HMO licence, despite three people from separate households occupying the flat during the tenancy.

An investigation by Haringey Council was launched after concerns were raised about the property's condition. Reports included extensive mould in communal areas, blocked kitchen facilities, exposed pipework, fire safety issues, and a collapsed ceiling. The tenant also alleged that the property lacked basic fire safety measures, such as fire doors and smoke alarms.

The tribunal determined that the property met the legal definition of an HMO and required a licence throughout the tenancy. The landlord was found to have committed an offence by managing the unlicensed HMO. The tribunal also noted that the landlord had previously faced a separate Rent Repayment Order involving another property, indicating a pattern of non-compliance with licensing requirements.

This case highlights the importance for letting agents and inventory clerks to ensure that all properties under their management meet HMO licensing requirements and maintain adequate living conditions. Failure to comply can result in significant financial penalties and legal action.