Property companies fined £42,000 over rat-infested Kentish Town flats

Two property management companies have been slapped with a £42,000 bill over three “unsafe” and “rat-infested” flats in Kentish Town.

Saucepans were used to catch leaking water in the flats. Picture: Camden Council - Credit: Archant

On Friday 13 July 2018, at Highbury Magistrates Court, Leycam Ltd and Citydeal Estates were ordered to pay out after being found guilty of 21 charges relating to the improper management of the flats on Fortress Road.

The case, brought by Camden Council, saw Leycam and Citydeal found guilty of 12 charges relating to lack of HMO (House of Multiple Occupation) licence with Camden Council and 9 other offences relating to the condition of the flats.

Council officers were alerted in summer 2017 when tenants complained about a rat infestation and poor housing conditions, including rotting windows, dampness and fire safety issues.

The companies received a joint fine of £25,050, while Leycam Limited will pay a further £6,975.

Councillor Meric Apak, Cabinet Member for Housing at Camden Council said: “We will investigate all landlords who we suspect have allowed the condition of their properties to fall below the required standards and if evidence proves they have been negligent, we will respond in the strongest possible terms, including with legal action.”