Private Landlord Prosecuted ‘For Breaching License Conditions’

A private landlord operating in Wrexham has been prosecuted for breaching license conditions.

Arran Pritchard, 44, of Poplar Road, lets 22 Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMO) within Wrexham under the name of Wrexham Rooms.

He, and two of his associate companies, Unistay (Island Green) Ltd and Unistay (Walnut Tree) Ltd, pleaded guilty at Wrexham Magistrates Court on Thursday 26th November for four breaches of licence conditions in three properties, including exceeding the maximum number of occupiers permitted.

A £17,500 fine was awarded which is currently subject to appeal.

Lead Member for Housing, Cllr Ian Roberts, said: “The Council’s Private Sector Housing Team is in place to ensure properties that are let meet the required standards. The Council continues to work with good landlords and agents but will work tirelessly to prosecute those landlords who let poor properties and fail to manage them appropriately.

“This case should act as a warning to those who are operating illegally and refuse to co-operate with the Council that we will prosecute when needed.”

From 23 November 2015 new legislation has been introduced that requires all landlords operating in Wales to register and for landlords and agents who undertake letting and management work of rental properties in Wales to become licensed. More information can be found here or by ringing the helpline on 03000 133344.