Private landlord fined for not improving substandard property

Christopher Houghton was fined £2,640, plus costs of £487 and a victim surcharge of £190 at Tameside Magistrates' Court

A landlord who failed to ensure his property was clean and safe for tenants to live in has been successfully prosecuted by Oldham Council.

An Environmental Health Officer first visited a private rented property on Alton Street in Oldham in September last year after they received information about a number of faults, including dangerous electrics and a leaking toilet.

An Improvement Notice was served on the property’s owner, Christopher Mark Houghton, of Richmond Avenue in Chadderton, requiring him to carry out repairs. 

A follow up visit by officers in December found the work had not been carried out.

The landlord also failed to communicate with the Council, so legal proceedings for failing to comply with an Improvement Notice under the Housing Act 2004 were started.

On July 15 at Tameside Magistrates’ Court, Houghton was fined £2,640, plus costs of £487 and a victim surcharge of £190.

He was found guilty in his absence.

Councillor Hannah Roberts, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “Everyone has the right to live in a safe and clean home.

“The council will take action against private landlords and owners who potentially put lives at risk by renting out substandard properties.”

If you are a tenant living in a property that you think is dangerous or a risk to health, email: ENVhealth@oldham.gov.uk

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.