A WESTON landlord has been fined hundreds of pounds for failing to apply for a renting licence.

Abdul Hashim of Queens Square, Highbridge, neglected to apply for a licence to operate a privately-rented house of multiple occupation.

Hashim appeared before North Somerset Courthouse on March 4 when he pleaded guilty and was fined £440 for the offence, £44 victim surcharge and £700 costs to the North Somerset Council - totalling £1,184.

In June 2013, the council identified the property in Gloucester Street, Weston and carried out an inspection.

Following an interview with the owner, Mr Hashim admitted that he had been operating without the required licence.

Councillor Elfan Ap Rees, the council’s executive member for housing, said: “This case demonstrates that we will take action against those who are failing to comply with their legal responsibilities in order to provide a level playing field for the majority of good and well-intentioned landlords.

“Ultimately, by failing to declare this property, the owner has been made to pay three times the original licensing fee as a result of fines and costs imposed by the courts and still having to apply.”