Stafford landlord lands £14,000 court bill
A Stafford landlord has been ordered to pay more than £14,000 after failing to maintain properly a property he was renting out.
Calvin Wong was found guilty of charges including failing to fit a suitable fire detection system at an address in Marston Grove, Stafford, as well as failing to keep the property in good condition and not obtaining a licence from the borough council.
He had denied the charges but was found guilty in his absence at Burton upon Trent Magistrates Court.
Wong, of Rosewood House, Vauxhall Grove, London, was handed a fine, costs and victim surcharge totalling £14,202.38.
After the case, Councillor Jeremy Pert, cabinet member for communities at Stafford Borough Council, said: "The vast majority of landlords work with us to ensure the accommodation they provide is of the highest standard.
"But while cases like this are rare in Stafford borough I hope this sends a message that we will prosecute if necessary."
"The private rented sector continues to provide a good housing option for many families and is a growing and important part of our community.
"I would urge every landlord to consider joining the landlords' forum to keep up to date with legislation and changes to housing regulations for the benefit of the tenants in the borough."
