Two landlords have been fined £25,200 for having an “overcrowded” house in multiple occupation (HMO).

The pair were punished after it was found more people were living in the Sittingbourne property than permitted.

Swale council’s housing enforcement team carried out an investigation at the home in the Murston Road area following an internal referral.

A kitchen in the HMO had been converted into a self-contained unit for a couple, which greatly increased the risks to the tenants’ safety.

Cllr Angela Harrison (Lab), chair of the council’s housing and health committee, said: "This is a significant fine which sends a clear message to HMO landlords that we will not tolerate breaches of licence conditions or management regulations.

“Overcrowded living conditions aren’t just unpleasant for those living there, but increases the risk of hazards like fire, and can mean people don’t have access to essential amenities.

“The safety of tenants is paramount and we will continue to take firm action against those who fail to meet their legal obligations.”

The landlords were found to be in breach of the Housing Act 2004, which regulates the management and safety standards in HMOs.

One was told to pay £13,200 and the other £12,000. A 25% early payment discount was applied, which reduced the fine to £9,900 and £9,000 respectively.

The proceeds of the fine are ringfenced and reinvested back into the council’s private housing enforcement efforts.

This will help support ongoing inspections, investigations and enforcement actions to help maintain standards and protect vulnerable tenants from unsafe living conditions.

The penalty was issued in June and was not appealed by either landlord.