Norfolk landlord fined £40,000 for 'unsafe property'
Inspectors found a blocked fire escape and damaged fire doors
A Norfolk landlord's been ordered to pay £40,000 in fines after he was found to be putting housing tenants at risk.
The issue with a property in Watton was reported to the council last year, prompting an inspection by Breckland Council officers, who found a blocked fire escape, damaged fire doors, dangerous electrics and broken and rotten windows.
These issues led to them deeming the property unsafe.
The landlord of the property, which was home to multiple tenants, was given time to carry out repairs, but a follow-up inspection found insufficient progress had been made.
As a result, the council issued a £20,000 fine to the landlord company and £20,000 to the company's director.
The fines have now been paid and work to address the issues in the property has since been completed by the landlord.
Cllr Claire Bowes, Executive Member for Housing and Homelessness, and ward member for Watton, said: "The vast majority of Breckland's landlords provide well-maintained homes for their tenants and the quality of housing overall is very good.
"However, this case shows that the council will not tolerate a decline in housing quality or for residents to be put at risk and we will take action to protect our residents' right to live in a safe home."
Cllr Keith Gilbert and Cllr Tina Kiddell, also Breckland Council ward members for Watton, added: "We are happy to hear that all outstanding work has now been carried out and the Watton residents affected now have a safe place to live, thanks to the council's actions."