Council Withdraws Support for Vulnerable Tenant

A Nottingham landlord, Mick Roberts, has publicly stated that Nottingham City Council has effectively ‘washed its hands’ of a vulnerable tenant it placed in his property in 2007. Mr Roberts, who is the city’s largest landlord of benefit tenants, says the tenant, now aged 70 and living with cancer and mobility issues, has not received the necessary support from the council. This lack of assistance has left Mr Roberts responsible for mounting costs related to property upkeep and enforcement notices.

Tenant’s Health and Property Condition

The tenant, who uses a wheelchair and suffers from other health problems, has lived at the Bulwell property for nearly two decades. Over time, the garden has become heavily cluttered with waste, and the boundary fencing has been damaged. Mr Roberts emphasises that he does not blame the tenant for the state of the property, stating, “I’m not a social worker, not a counsellor, not a council worker. I housed him on the council’s say so.” The landlord has already cleared some rubbish with the help of a prospective buyer but acknowledges that further work is needed.

Enforcement Action and Licensing Costs

Nottingham City Council’s licensing officers are pursuing Mr Roberts for a property licence, which costs £890. Failure to obtain this licence could result in fines of up to £30,000 under housing enforcement powers. Additionally, local community protection officers have issued instructions requiring the garden to be cleared and fencing repaired by a set deadline. The council holds the landlord responsible for these repairs, despite the tenant’s health-related challenges.

Landlord’s Position and Responsibilities

Mr Roberts expresses frustration at being held accountable for the property’s condition, saying, “And yes, you’ve guessed it – it’s the landlord’s fault the house is like this. For a tenant the council asked me to house!” He reiterates that the tenant did not receive the appropriate support, but he is committed to resolving the issues himself: “But that’s OK, the landlord will sort it.” The situation highlights the challenges landlords face when accommodating vulnerable tenants without adequate support from local authorities.

Implications for UK Landlords

This case underscores the importance of clear communication and support arrangements between councils and landlords, particularly when housing vulnerable tenants. Landlords may find themselves responsible for property maintenance and enforcement costs if local authorities withdraw support or fail to provide necessary services. It also emphasises the need for landlords to be aware of licensing requirements and potential penalties to avoid costly enforcement action.

Council Response

Nottingham City Council has been approached for comment regarding the situation but has not yet responded.