Prosecutions and appeals

Prosecutions

Most people want to comply with the law and therefore we take care to help businesses, landlords and others to meet their legal obligations.

Failure to do so generally stems from ignorance or carelessness but sometimes from wilfulness or malice.

Firm action will be taken where appropriate against those who break the law or act irresponsibly.

A failure to licence a property that requires a licence is a criminal offence and we may take prosecution proceedings.

Upon conviction the court may impose an unlimited fine. Alternatively the Council may impose a civil financial penalty of up to £30,000.

You could also have control of your unlicensed properties taken away from you, and be ordered to repay up to 12 months rent to us or your tenants.

If you are convicted of a housing offence, or issued with a financial penalty which is not subject to a successful appeal, your details may be included on a rogue landlord database which can be viewed by other London Borough Councils and the public.

View the Council's Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy here

Appeals

There are usually rights of appeal against formal action and advice on how to appeal will be clearly set out in writing at the time the action is taken.

The Council aim to carry out enforcement work in a fair, practical and consistent manner in accordance with our enforcement policy.

If you disagree with the decision, you’re entitled to make a complaint directly to the council.

You may also appeal to the residential property tribunal within 28 days if you disagree with any of the council’s decisions.

First Tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
10 Alfred Place
London
WC1E 7LR

020 7446 7700