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

Nottingham Councillor Fined Over £11,500 for Unlicensed HMO

A Nottingham city councillor has been ordered to pay more than £11,500 after being prosecuted by Nottingham City Council for operating an unlicensed house in multiple occupation (HMO). Faith Gakanje-Ajala, who represents Bilborough for the Nottingham People’s Alliance, was found guilty of failing to licence her HMO at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court.

The prosecution was brought by Nottingham City Council’s Safer Housing Team. The district judge found Gakanje-Ajala guilty in her absence, accepting aggravating factors presented by the authority. The penalties imposed included a £7,500 fine, a £3,000 victim surcharge, and council costs of £1,037.50, totalling £11,537.50.

The property in question is located on Darnal Close, between Bestwood and Top Valley, and falls under Nottingham’s citywide Additional Licensing Scheme. This scheme, introduced in January 2024, requires landlords of certain smaller HMOs—specifically those occupied by three or more tenants from different households—to obtain a licence from the council.

Following the prosecution, the Nottingham People’s Alliance confirmed that Gakanje-Ajala has been suspended pending further investigation. The Alliance’s leader, Cllr Kirsty Jones, stated that all renters have the right to live in safe, secure homes and that landlords must comply fully with their legal obligations.

Nottingham City Council stated that the prosecution reflects its ongoing commitment to tackle rogue landlords across the city who disregard their legal obligations within Housing Law and the impact this has on renters in Nottingham.

This case highlights the importance for letting agents and inventory clerks to ensure that all properties under their management comply with local licensing requirements, particularly under new schemes such as Nottingham’s Additional Licensing Scheme.