A LANDLORD has been fined almost £2,500 after a Northwich flat tenant complained of excessive mould and a front door they could not close.

Nicholas Ian Shaw, 47 and from Norbury's Yard, Knutsford, was convicted at Chester Magistrates Court on Thursday, August 9, after failing to comply with an improvement notice.

Mr Shaw had rented out a Victorian terrace flat in Huxley Street to a young family with two children under five years old at the time of the complaint in September 2016.

Following numerous requests to Mr Shaw to take action to replace single-glazed windows, repair a front door that could not close, improve insufficient loft insulation and fix problems with mould in the bathroom of the property, court action was the only remaining option.

Cllr Angela Claydon, cabinet member for housing, said: “As a council we are very keen to improve housing conditions in the private rented sector.

"Our first preference is always to work in partnership with landlords however, we are not afraid of taking legal action against landlords who refuse to engage with us and do not carry out the necessary works we have recommended.

“In the autumn we will be launching a Better Renting Campaign which will not only feature the work the council is doing to improve housing conditions and housing management standards across the borough, but will also show how we are working with our partners in making sure that tenants are aware of their rights and responsibilities.

“The council is keen to ensure that the private rented sector works for good landlords and tenants alike and that appropriate action is taken against landlords who do not fulfil their responsibilities."

Mr Shaw was fined a total of £2495 by magistrates, following his failure to comply with the Housing Act 2004.