A private landlord has been fined £4,000 after admitting multiple breaches of HMO regulations at a property where tenants were found to be living in conditions that posed significant risks to their health and safety.

Anita Sharma, 45, pleaded guilty to seven offences under the Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (England) Regulations 2006 following an investigation by the City of Lincoln Council.

The investigation began after tenants at the Tempest Street property raised concerns and Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue identified immediate fire safety risks during a visit in January 2025.

Council officers found a range of serious hazards, including fire safety failings, electrical risks, damp and disrepair. An Emergency Prohibition Order was subsequently served because of the imminent risk to occupants.

At Lincoln Magistrates’ Court, Sharma was also ordered to pay £2,000 towards the council’s costs and an £800 victim surcharge.

In a related case, a second individual acting on behalf of the landlord accepted a caution for an offence under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977.

Cllr Donald Nannestad, portfolio holder for quality housing at City of Lincoln Council, said: “Everyone deserves to live in a safe, secure and well-maintained home. This case demonstrates our commitment to protecting tenants and taking action against landlords who fail to meet their legal responsibilities.

“The conditions identified at this property presented serious risks to the health and safety of the people living there. We welcome the court’s decision and hope it sends a clear message that poor housing management and breaches of housing regulations will not be tolerated in Lincoln.”

Cllr Nannestad added: “Our Housing Standards and Enforcement Team will continue to investigate complaints and take robust enforcement action where necessary to improve housing standards across the city and protect residents.”