Landlords in Boston fined for 'breaches to HMO regulations'

According to Boston Borough Council, in a recent tribunal court hearing, Nigel William Harry Hobbs and James Robert Hobbs faced financial civil penalties imposed by the council regarding properties at 123 and 125, Norfolk Street, Boston.

A spokesperson for the authority said: “The case focused on violations of the Housing Act 2004 and the Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Regulations 2006. The penalties imposed on James Robert Hobbs for managing a HMO in breach of regulations amounted to £5,750, while Nigel William Harry Hobbs faced similar charges with penalties totalling £5,750. Additionally, Nigel William Harry Hobbs incurred a financial penalty of £10,000 for operating a HMO that required a mandatory licence without having one, and £1,500 for breaching Management of HMO Regulations 2006.

“The appeals against the financial penalties relating to 125 Norfolk Street, Boston, centered on whether the property was intended to be run as a HMO. Both Appellants argued that the property's classification as a HMO was due to the actions of a tenant and that the regulations were not breached.

The court upheld the penalties, highlighting the seriousness of non-compliance with HMOs and their respective management regulations.”

After the hearing the council said the ruling underscores the importance of maintaining standards in property management and ensuring the safety and well-being of tenants.

Coun John Baxter, Portfolio Holder for Housing at the council, said: "We welcome the court's decision to uphold the penalties for violations of HMO and management regulations. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of tenants and to maintain standards in property management.”