A Newcastle landlord has been fined £5,275 after renting out a dangerous converted garage to a vulnerable family with a six-month-old baby for £400 per month.
The shocking case came to light following a routine health visitor check at the Cowgate property, prompting an immediate referral to Newcastle City Council’s Public Protection team.
Council inspectors discovered the family of three living in appalling conditions within a cramped garage structure attached to the main house.
The property was subsequently shut down under an Emergency Prohibition Order, with authorities flagging the address for regular monitoring to prevent the landlord from letting it again.
The family of three were living in appalling conditions (Stock Image)
PEXELS
The landlord, who had advertised the property on social media, was charged for the enforcement notice and issued with a substantial civil penalty.
The inspection revealed the property had no fixed heating or adequate insulation, with water leaking in and severe damp and mould throughout.
The family was forced to cook using a slow cooker placed directly on the floor, with no proper kitchen facilities available and only a poorly fitted shower.
Due to the extremely cramped conditions, the six-month-old baby was either sleeping in bed with the parents or placed in a makeshift hammock suspended from the ceiling.
Fire protection in the converted garage was deemed inadequate, creating additional safety hazards for the young family.
The conditions were so dire that council officials had no choice but to immediately close the property under The Housing Act 2004.
Councillor Paula Maines, Newcastle’s Cabinet Member for Housing, expressed her outrage at the situation, stating: “I am absolutely appalled by the disgusting conditions that this young family were living in. They were vulnerable and this landlord took advantage of that.”
She emphasised the vital importance of housing regulations, adding: “As a council, we will do all that we can to act against those who think it is acceptable to put people up in such appalling conditions.”
Councillor Paula Maines expressed outrage at the situation
Newcastle City Council Website
The council’s Property Licensing Schemes are designed to raise standards in private rentals and increase landlord accountability.
She emphasised the vital importance of housing regulations, adding: “As a council, we will do all that we can to act against those who think it is acceptable to put people up in such appalling conditions.”
“Everyone has a right to feel safe and secure in their home,” Maines declared, highlighting the council’s commitment to enforcing proper housing standards across Newcastle.