Rogue agent and companies hit with £60,000 fine

A rogue agent and two lettings companies have been heavily fined for operating a dangerous unlicensed house in multiple occupation (HMO) at Brassey Road, West Hampstead.

Michel Zanon of Oaklands Road, Cricklewood and Galenon Ltd and Nathiam Ltd were fined £60,000 at Highbury Corner Magistrate’s Court on Thursday 6 September 2018.

An early morning raid of the property at Brassey Road in December 2017, attended by Camden Council, Police, London Fire Brigade and James Murray, Deputy Mayor of Housing and Residential Development at the Greater London Authority, found at least eight tenants in overcrowded and dangerous conditions. The raid also found fire safety and electric safety issues.

Councillor Meric Apak, Cabinet Member for Better Homes at Camden Council, said: “A large proportion of Camden’s residents rent privately and pay through the nose to do so. The very least they can expect in return is to live in a safe, accessible home with decent living space. We will always assist landlords that seek our advice but Camden Council’s commitment to residents is that we will take the strongest possible action against landlords and lettings agents not meeting standards and disregarding tenants’ rights.”