George Nathanel managed the flats on behalf of Zenobia Properties and was found to have breached planning regulations by offering short-term stays at the properties in Grove Road, North Finchley, despite planning permission only allowing use as self-contained single households.
Following complaints from neighbours about noise, Barnet Council issued a notice in November 2023 ordering Nathanel to cease use of the properties, following complaints and a request to investigate a potential breach of planning control by neighbours.
Cllr Ross Houston, cabinet member for homes and regeneration, said: “We gave Mr Nathanel ample opportunity to stop using the properties as short-term rentals but were left with no alternative but to take him to court when he didn’t stop.
“Barnet Council clamps down hard on rogue landlords and where they don’t cooperate, we will always bring them to justice.
“We would like to thank the residents who brought this case to our attention.
“This is a great result for the neighbours whose lives were made a misery by the illegal letting of these flats on Airbnb and Booking.com.
“The prosecution and huge fine highlights the seriousness of the case and will be a strong deterrent to other rogue landlords from breaking the rules in the borough of Barnet.”
The council’s planning enforcement team found the flats were regularly let to large groups who used them for parties, causing significant noise and disruption.
One neighbour described the impact as “stressful and devastating”, telling the court it had severely affected his sleep, mental health, and ability to work.
The prosecution presented evidence showing at least 220 days of short-term bookings in the first 10 months of 2024.
Nathanel, who did not attend court, claimed he was in Russia with his children awaiting surgery.
He initially denied knowledge of the short-term lets and blamed “long-term tenants,” but Airbnb reviews identified him as an “amazing, attentive and responsive host.”
On June 26, 2025, Willesden Magistrates’ Court found Nathanel guilty of breaching a council-issued notice and fined him £75,000, with additional council costs of £5,400 and a £2,000 victim surcharge.
Listings for the flats remain live on rental platforms, despite the ruling.
