A property firm responsible for a high-rise residential block has been fined £240,000 after failing to carry out critical fire safety improvements.

Avamore Limited failed to comply with an Improvement Notice issued by Birmingham City Council, which required the installation of a fire detection system across three tower blocks at Solihull Heights in the city. The system was designed to provide residents with early warning in the event of a fire involving the buildings' external walls.

The company pleaded guilty at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court to failing to comply with the notice. Following sentencing, a £360,000 fine was reduced to £240,000 due to the company’s early guilty plea. Avamore was also ordered to pay prosecution costs and a £2,000 victim surcharge.

Worrying

Councillor Harris Khaliq, cabinet member for city services and digital (pictured), says residents should never be left worrying whether building owners are taking fire safety seriously or acting when risks are identified.

“This case sends a clear message,” he adds. “If landlords, developers or building owners ignore legal notices designed to protect residents, Birmingham City Council will take action and hold them to account.

“For too long, too many people have felt powerless when serious issues affecting their safety were ignored. Our job is to stand on the side of residents, not those who cut corners. That is exactly what we are doing.”

The prosecution is the latest step in the authority’s ongoing work to make high-rise homes safer. It promises that dedicated specialist officers continue to investigate fire safety concerns across the city, with 26 other developments currently subject to enforcement action.

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