A tenant who was illegally subletting a three-storey house has been fined £16,000.

Fariba Khosravikharshad came to Barnet Council’s attention after reports of antisocial behaviour and multiple people living in a house in Russell Lane, East Barnet.

Enforcement Officers found that the house was occupied by five separate lettings and a total of five tenants.

The property did not have a fire alarm system, leaving the tenants at risk.

Khosravikharshad had a tenancy for the house, but did not live there, instead subletting it without the consent of the owner or his agent. She received rent from the tenants and was responsible for managing and licencing the property.

If she had applied for a licence, council officers would have inspected the property and worked with the landlord to ensure the property was safe and antisocial behaviour was prevented.

Fariba Khosravikharshad was convicted at Willesden Magistrates’ Court for failing to acquire a licence and manage a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) without reasonable excuse.

Khosravikharshad was fined £16,000 and ordered to pay £3,732.26 in costs, plus a £170 victim surcharge, after a ruling on September 26.

Councillor Dan Thomas, Leader of Barnet Council, said: "This is an unusual case, as it was a tenant rather than a landlord who was convicted. However, we know that it has become increasingly common for tenants to sublet properties, putting other tenants at risk.

"We will crack down on all illegal HMOs to protect the safety of our residents whatever their circumstances."

To ensure they are meeting all the necessary legal requirements, landlords should visit: www.barnet.gov.uk/hmos