Epping Forest Council takes action on unsafe rental homes

Jayanti Patel, director of Martlane Ltd, was found to be operating three unlicensed HMOs (houses in multiple occupation) in Epping.

An investigation by Epping Forest District Council identified six offences across the properties, including overcrowding and inadequate fire safety measures.

The case led to a record fine for the district of £60,200.

Cllr Paul Keska says the record fine shows zero tolerance for rogue landlords (Image: Epping Forest District Council) Councillor Paul Keska, cabinet member for regulatory, technical and community safety services at Epping Forest District Council, said: “It highlights our zero-tolerance approach to landlords who operate unlicensed sub-standard accommodation and sends a clear message that the council will take enforcement action where necessary.

“However, it could have been avoided if the landlord had taken the proper steps to ensure they had the correct licences, and the properties met the required housing standards from the start.”

Mr Patel has since worked with the council to bring the properties up to standard.

The council has encouraged residents to report concerns about unsafe or overcrowded housing to its Private Sector Housing Environmental Health team.

They can be contacted by email at privatesectorhousing@eppingforestdc.gov.uk or by phone on 01992 564348.