Ipswich landlord and company ordered to pay over £50,000 for housing offences
An investigation was launched into the property following concerns raised by Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service
Last updated 15th Apr 2021
A landlord and company in Ipswich has been ordered to pay over £50,000 for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) offences.
Ipswich Borough Council launched an investigation into a property on London Road in June 2019 following safety concerns raised by Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service.
It includes fire safety issues and people sleeping in an illegal and unsafe basement, as well as concerns from an employment agency about the number of workers registered there.
The investigation found that, despite planning permission to turn it into four flats was granted in 1996, the basement had been turned into a fifth.
Conversion works of the property had also not been signed off under Building Regulations and a range of defects posed safety risks.
The basement relied on a "poorly positioned" skylight for natural light and ventilation and electrical defects were found throughout.
Ipswich Borough Council's investigation also discovered the fire alarm system and communal lighting was not working correctly and ventilation ducts, doors and walls were not designed to protect the fire escape route from fire and smoke.
Leaks and water damage were also found throughout the property.
Ralph Bernard and Francis Investments (East Anglia) Limited, who he's the sole director of, were convicted on 10 charges.
Bernard was fined a total of £29,000 and the company was fined £7,250, total costs of £16,836.20 and a victim surcharge of £181 are also payable.