The Slum HMO, run by a landlord on a private property in Slough, was a fire hazard for nine unrelated tenants whose only bathroom in the garden was a drug-like shed, the court heard.
When officers visited the Knolton Way, Slough facility, they discovered that it did not have a fire alarm system to work, there was no proper escape route and no fire door to the bedroom. 
If fire doors were fitted, they were in very poor condition, unlikely to provide much protection, and were not fire resistant in the alcove.
All nine residents had to share their bathrooms in a brick shed in the garden (pictured) with no windows and doors properly closed.
Crime
Landlord Hajira Mehmoud was found guilty of the following eight counts, but not one other crime related to the garden.
Offence 1 – HMO license failed – £1,000 fine. Attack 2 – Do not display name and address – Fine of £500. Crimes 3-6 – Management Regulations (Fire Safety) – Fines of £2,000 for each violation. Violation 8 – Failed to provide documentation – Fine of £500.
In total, she must pay a fine of £9,000 and a cost of £5,556.37.
I'm glad to see the courts take these crimes seriously. ”
Councillor Israt Shah, a lead member of Public Health and Public Protection, said: Tenants deserve to live in safe and habitable conditions and have no excuse for the landlord to waive legal obligations.
“Warning this to others to make sure they meet all their duties and if they are not, they will appear in court and act immediately to avoid facing any major financial penalties. please.”
Photo: Reading Council.
