A landlord who left tenants to live in unsafe conditions inside a shared house has been fined nearly £30,000.

Up to ten people were living in poor conditions in the property in Durban Road West, Watford, owned by Mohammed Khaliq of Salt Hill Drive, Slough.

Mr Khaliq, who failed to licence the shared house, breached regulations under the Housing Act 2004 by operating a House in Multiple Occupancy that was unsafe, in a poor state of repair and dirty.

It was found that the property did not have adequate fire safety arrangements – there was not a single smoke detector that was working.

The kitchen was also dirty and in a poor condition, while there was inadequate drainage to a shower.

A pile of rubbish was also found in the garden.

At St Albans Magistrates Court evidence was provided by a police officer, two Environmental Health Officers from Watford Borough Council and one of the previous tenants.

Mr Khaliq was found guilty of six offences under the Housing Act.

He was issued a fine of £17,000, a victim surcharge of £181 and ordered to pay £10,488.62 to the council.

The council is in contact with the tenants and supporting them in their illegal eviction case.

Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “Many landlords provide high quality standards for local residents. However, this successful prosecution has shown that we will take action against rogue landlords who do not respect their tenants.

"People renting a home have the right to expect it is maintained to a decent standard and not be exploited or put at risk of harm. We will continue to work with the police to protect the rights of those living in private rented accommodation in our town.”

Houses in Multiple Occupancy must meet certain standards relating to fire safety and amenities provided.

If it is occupied by five or more tenants, a licence from the council is required. More information about the required standards and licensing can be found at www.watford.gov.uk/HMO