A landlord has been told to pay more than £4,500 after failing to clear piles of rubbish that attracted vermin from his three rental properties.

Following complaints from neighbours about vermin and the ongoing nuisance, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s environmental crime team officers worked with landlord, Joseph Giovanni, offering advice and guidance to help resolve the issues. However, despite making contact and sending a number of letters, no action was taken to remove the waste.

It subsequently served formal warning notices under the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014 and the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949. When these notices were also ignored, the cases were brought before the courts, relating to three properties in Darwen on Sudellside Street, Olive Lane and Higher Church Street.

Costs

The court ordered Giovanni to pay a total of more than £4,500 in fines, costs and victim surcharge.

Councillor Jim Casey, executive member for environment and communities services (pictured), says council officers made every effort to work with the landlord and resolve the issues without the need for court action.

“Unfortunately, repeated advice, warnings and legal notices were ignored, leaving us with no option but to prosecute,” he adds.

“This case demonstrates that we will take firm action where individuals fail to meet their responsibilities and allow environmental problems to negatively affect local communities. We encourage landlords and tenants alike to make use of the support and services available to help manage waste responsibly.”

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