
Data gleaned from a property intelligence service has helped to convict a rogue landlord and property firm who rented out an unlicensed and unsafe HMO.
Uttlesford District Council’s inspection of the former Skyline Hotel in June 2024 revealed serious safety failings at the property, including the absence of fire alarms, emergency lighting, and safe escape routes at the HMO in Barnston, Essex. Despite an emergency prohibition order being served, tenants continued living in the building for several months.
The failings were uncovered using evidence from Occupid.com, the sister service of tenant feedback platform Marks Out Of Tenancy, which provides verified occupancy and property data to uncover unlicensed HMOs and find empty properties.
At Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court, Dawn Hennessey pleaded guilty to operating an unlicensed HMO, while Wheatsheaf Mews Development Ltd admitted breaching the emergency prohibition order. Fines and costs following the criminal prosecution totalled £58,000.
The OccupID tool confirmed that the property was being actively used as an unlicensed HMO, cross-referencing occupancy data to provide a clear pattern of multiple residents. The firm was also able to supply names of individuals registered as tenants at the address, supporting enforcement officers in verifying ongoing occupation after the prohibition order was issued.

Ben Yarrow, founder of Marks Out Of Tenancy (pictured), says this data-backed evidence strengthened the council’s case and helped secure successful criminal convictions against both the operator and the property owner.
He adds: “This case shows how data transparency can make housing safer. Using OccupID, we were able to supply the council with independent, verifiable evidence that confirmed ongoing, unlawful occupation.”
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