A landlord who left her tenants in a damp and mouldy flat has been ordered to pay a whopping £16,267 by magistrates.
Crawley Magistrates Court heard that Vilma Edmonds, the sole director of property management company Meynell Ltd and landlord responsible for the property in Bayford Road, Littlehampton, failed to do essential repairs.
Arun District Council carried out repeated inspections at the flat where council officers found serious problems including damp, mould growth, and excess cold, as well as disrepair to windows and external doors.
An Improvement Notice was served under the Housing Act 2004, requiring remedial works to be completed to ensure the property met acceptable living standards.
Despite being given the opportunity to address the problems, Edmonds and her firm failed to comply with the notice. They were both found guilty in their absence and ordered to pay a combined total of £16,267, including fines, victim surcharges, and council costs.
Councillor Amanda Worne (pictured), chair of the environment committee, says the outcome sends a clear message. “Arun District Council will not hesitate to take action where landlords neglect their legal responsibilities.
“The health and safety of tenants is a priority, and the council remains committed to ensuring that all rented accommodation in the district is safe, secure, and maintained to a high standard.”
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