Unlicensed HMOs fined a combined £27,500

The landlord of an unlicensed HMO in Granville Road, Gravesend, was fined £10,000

Two unlicensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Kent have been fined a combined £27,500 as part of a council clampdown.

Gravesham Borough Council has issued a £10,000 fine to the landlord of an unlicensed HMO on Granville Road, Gravesend.

The managing agent of a similar property on Parrock Street, also in Gravesend, was fined £17,500.

Unlicensed HMOs are being targeted by the council's private sector housing team following a successful amnesty last year which saw them support landlords and owners in becoming registered.

Councillor Karina O'Malley, cabinet member for housing services, said these two cases were "just the start".

"Now, for the good of local residents, we are pursuing those who don't have licences... we are actively investigating others and will follow-up on intelligence received," she said.

An HMO must have a licence if it is occupied by five or more people, with those granted valid for five years.

Failure to obtain a licence or a breach of licence conditions are both punishable by a fine.