A Yorkshire property company was fined £20,000 after failing to carry out fire safety improvement works on a property in Driffield.
Yorkshire Property Company Fined For Fire Safety Failures
GAP Properties, based in Doncaster, pleaded guilty to both counts of failing to comply with improvement notices that were served under the Housing Act 2004. The prosecution was brought by East Riding of Yorkshire Council, who received complaints from tenants in 2020.
Following an inspection, officers found the safety of the tenants was at risk. There was a lack of smoke and heat detectors, a collapsed ceiling, no hallway lighting, and windows and patio doors that did not open or lock properly.
The company was asked to solve the issues, but despite assurances, after further inspections in December 2020 and again in January 2021, it was clear that the requests were ignored.
Legal notices were served on the company, and eventually court proceedings. GAP Properties was fined £20,000, plus costs of £3,419.57, and a £190 victim surcharge.
Chris Dunnachie, the Private Sector Housing Manager at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “Throughout the case, officers continually advised the landlord of the need to do essential repairs at the property. The council will take robust action if the safety of tenants is put at risk.”
The prosecution highlights the importance for all owners and managers of buildings to ensure that regular, thorough, fire safety inspections and fire safety maintenance takes place. A professional fire maintenance company such as RV Fire Systems are able to advise on the best course of action, and can complete a fire safety risk assessment and offer advice.
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