What sanctions can be imposed against landlords?
If the landlord of a property, which is liable to be licensed, and which does not have a licence or a valid temporary exemption notice, or allows an HMO to be occupied by more than the specified number of people in the licence, he commits an offence, which may be punishable by a fine of up to £20,000. If the landlord breaches the conditions of the licence, he also commits an offence and may be liable for a fine of up to £5000. The Local Authority will be able to apply to the Residential Property Tribunal for a rent repayment order, in order to recoup any rent paid during the unlicensed period. No offence is committed if there is an outstanding application for a licence or a temporary exemption notice is in force.
