Council fined over mouldy flat

Lambeth Council pleaded guilty to offences under the Environmental Protection Act after failing to deal with the problems at the tenant’s flat.

The south London borough was also ordered to install double-glazing and upgrade the insulation at the property, as well as getting rid of the damp and mould.

Timothy Waitt, a partner at Anthony Gold solicitors who acted for the tenants, said: ‘This case is Lambeth Council’s third criminal conviction for failing to deal with serious damp and mould problems. 

‘Lambeth Council could have avoided this conviction, the fine, the compensation and the costs by simply doing the works when told about it. If they had, my client would have been happy and money would have been saved.’

The firm was acting on a ‘no win no fee’ basis.

A spokesperson for Lambeth said: ‘It is a shame that this case had to go to court but we are pleased that the matter has now been resolved and apologise for the distress and inconvenience.’  

The council was ordered to pay a £250 fine and £750 in compensation.