Landlords in Haringey have collectively incurred fines amounting to £207,500 for their failure to obtain licenses for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO), according to official confirmation from the Haringey Borough Council.

Since the commencement of enforcement measures, 59 warnings have been issued to landlords found to be renting out unlicensed HMO properties illegally. Of these warnings, 43 have resulted in financial penalties.

The council's approach to enforcement involves the use of Civil Penalty Notices (CPN) to ensure compliance with the law, with the primary objective of strengthening the private rental sector and safeguarding Haringey residents. Landlords found operating without the requisite license not only face CPN fines but may also be required to reimburse tenants for rent received.

Councillor Sarah Williams, who holds the portfolio for Housing Services, Private Renters, and Planning, reaffirmed the council's commitment to protecting residents in the private rental sector within Haringey. She stated, “We will do everything in our power to protect our residents in the private rented sector in Haringey. Our HMO licensing scheme provides us with an even better platform to do this.”

Williams underscored the council's unwavering commitment to improving housing standards across the borough. She added, “Whilst we continue this journey to improve housing standards across the borough, we will fight for renters’ rights and ensure residents across Haringey live in homes that are well managed, of good quality and most of all, safe,”

The strict enforcement measures send a clear signal that the council does not tolerate unscrupulous landlords. Councillor Williams emphasized, “As shown with this case, landlords who fail to comply will face tough enforcement action. Rogue landlords will not be tolerated in Haringey,”