Stratford-on-Avon District Council is issuing a strong warning to landlords and property management companies after a local property management company was fined £750 for failing to meet legal safety requirements.
The Section 235 Notice*, served by the District Council's Private Sector Housing Team required the company to provide essential documentation, including Fire Risk Assessment certificates, to support an ongoing investigation into the safety and management standards of a local property in Alcester.
Despite clear statutory deadlines and multiple formal requests, the company failed to supply the required information. This obstruction hindered the District Council's ability to carry out its legal duties to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the property's occupants.
Cllr Liz Coles, Housing and Customer Services Portfolio said: "Failing to provide essential safety documentation is not only a breach of the law, it puts residents at risk. This action sends a clear message that Stratford-on-Avon District Council will not hesitate to enforce against those who disregard their legal obligations and underlines our commitment to maintaining and enforcing health and safety standards across the District's private housing sector.
"We expect all landlords and property managers to cooperate fully and uphold the high standards required to keep people safe in their homes. Beyond this penalty, enforcement of this nature can lead to substantial additional costs, including legal and prosecution fees, which may significantly increase the overall financial liability."
If you have any concerns about private rented accommodation in the District, please contact the District Council's Private Sector Housing Team on PSHT@stratford-dc.gov.uk or call 01789 260848. You can also report your concerns via our website Private sector housing form | Stratford-on-Avon District Council
Background information:
- *A Section 235 Notice under the Housing Act 2004, is a legal document issued by the Local Housing Authority to produce certain documents related to a property.
