Since January 2024, Haringey Council has levied fines amounting to £108,000 against landlords and letting agents who have not secured the necessary licenses for their houses in multiple occupation (HMO).

Landlords renting to at least three tenants from different households, who share amenities such as toilets, bathrooms, or kitchens, are legally required to obtain an HMO license.

To ensure landlords uphold responsibilities and maintain housing standards, an additional HMO licensing scheme has been in effect throughout Haringey since 2019.

Landlords who evade licensing requirements face Civil Penalty Notices (CPNs), with individual fines reaching up to £30,000.

Moreover, tenants living in unlicensed properties can claim up to 12 months of rent repayment through Rent Repayment Orders.

Eubert Malcolm, assistant director for stronger and safer communities at Haringey Council, stated, “Our priority is and always will be to protect our tenants' welfare and ensure they live in safe, well-maintained homes.

“These fines send a clear message that we will not tolerate negligence from landlords and letting agents.

“We are committed to upholding high standards for all rental properties in Haringey.”

These actions by Haringey Council highlight their commitment to enforcing housing regulations and safeguarding tenant welfare.