A landlord in Anfield has recently been handed a bill exceeding £16,000 for multiple disrepair and other issues found at an HMO property. The landlord, identified as Patrick Duggan of 34 Arkles Lane, L4 2SP, was found guilty of breaching HMO Management Regulations and licensing conditions at Sefton Magistrates’ Court on March 25th.
Liverpool City Council’s Private Sector Housing team conducted an inspection of the property on Arkles Lane in 2023. During the inspection, several violations of The Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (England) Regulations 2006 were identified, including concerns related to fire safety, structural defects in the boundary wall, and various disrepair issues like damp and mold. Mr. Duggan was also found to have failed in providing necessary documentation within the stipulated timeframe as per HMO licensing conditions.
District Judge James Clark presided over a trial in January where Mr. Duggan faced charges. The judge noted that while there were some management mechanisms in place at the property, they were ultimately inadequate. As a result of the trial, the property in question is no longer available for rent.
This case is part of a broader effort by Liverpool City Council to ensure housing standards are met. In 2024, the council secured 33 prosecutions with fines totaling £342,584 and issued 11 Civil Penalty Notices with fines amounting to £59,862. Councillor Sam East, Cabinet Member for Housing, emphasized the importance of safe and habitable housing for tenants and encouraged the public to report any concerns regarding HMO or landlord licensing conditions. To report any issues related to rental properties, individuals can contact privatesector.housing@liverpool.gov.uk or report online
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