Rashidat Adebukola Edekunle-Mohammed, the property owner, and Tunde Coker of Alpha Property Services, were sentenced at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 14th October, after pleading guilty.
The case involved a property on Havil Street, Camberwell which was rented out to a single family who reported defective heating to the council. Upon investigation, it was found that the property fell within the council's selective licensing area and was being rented without the required licence, despite both the landlord and letting agent being notified of the obligation to license the property.
All private-rented single-household properties within a designated area of the borough are required to be licensed.
The court ordered Edekunle-Mohammed to pay a total of £1,128 in fines and costs, while Coker was fined £2,256. Both amounts were reduced due to their early guilty pleas.
Councillor Natasha Ennin, Cabinet Member for Community Safety & Neighbourhoods, said: “This case demonstrates our commitment to holding landlords and letting agents accountable when they fail to meet their legal obligations. Licensing ensures that rented properties in Southwark are safe and well-maintained for our residents. We will continue to take action against those who put tenants at risk and encourage residents to report unscrupulous landlords.”
Southwark Council runs licensing schemes for both Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and single-family homes to ensure rented properties meet required standards. Landlords, tenants, or residents who suspect a property may be unlicensed are encouraged to visit the council’s website or contact resi@southwark.gov.uk for further information.