A North London landlord has been hit with a substantial fine exceeding £15,000 after being found guilty of operating an unlicensed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) that presented serious safety hazards to its five tenants. The case highlights ongoing enforcement efforts against rogue landlords in the capital's private rental sector.
Court Finds Landlord Guilty in Absence
Benjamin George Wilson, of Fitzjohn Avenue in Barnet, failed to appear at Highbury Magistrates Court on Thursday, January 8, where he was convicted in his absence of five separate offences under the Housing Act 2004. The charges specifically related to operating an HMO without the required licence and multiple failures to comply with safety and maintenance regulations outlined in section 234 of the Act.
Shocking Conditions Discovered During Inspection
During a comprehensive inspection conducted in May 2025 at the rental property on Belsize Road in Kilburn, Camden Council enforcement officers discovered five unrelated individuals living in conditions that immediately raised serious concerns. The inspection revealed multiple critical safety failures that put tenants at significant risk.
Officers documented several alarming hazards throughout the property, including:
- A complete absence of carbon monoxide alarms
- Items deliberately blocking the designated fire escape route
- Insufficient fire safety doors protecting the flat entrance, kitchen, and bedrooms
- Extensive mould growth throughout the bathroom area
- Significant structural disrepair throughout the living spaces
Substantial Financial Penalty Imposed
The magistrates imposed a total financial penalty of £15,872 on Mr. Wilson, comprising £2,500 for each of the five offences, a victim surcharge of £2,000, and prosecution costs amounting to £1,372. This substantial fine reflects the seriousness with which the court viewed the landlord's disregard for both licensing requirements and fundamental tenant safety.
Council Commitment to Tenant Protection
Councillor Sagal Abdi-Wali, Cabinet Member for Better Homes at Camden Council, expressed strong support for the enforcement action, stating: "This landlord profited from residents living in dangerous conditions and failed to comply with clear legislation. I'm pleased that he's been handed this fine thanks to the robust work of our enforcement officers."
She further emphasised the council's ongoing commitment to protecting private renters, adding: "Everyone deserves to live in a home that is safe and secure. With over a third of households in Camden privately renting, we will not hesitate to take action against landlords who fail to meet important safety and management standards for our residents."
The case serves as a stark reminder to all landlords operating in North London about their legal responsibilities regarding HMO licensing and property maintenance standards. With Camden Council demonstrating a clear willingness to pursue enforcement action through the courts, property owners who neglect their duties face not only substantial financial penalties but also potential damage to their reputation within the competitive London rental market.
