A landlord has been hit with a bill of over £100,000 after flouting safety requirements at five flats.

Beckhall Properties based in Stockport was fined a total of £108,000 for 12 separate offences and ordered to pay costs of £5,692.

The company was represented by a solicitor but failed to attend the court hearing.

The properties in Manchester, which fall under Houses in Multiple Occupation legislation, were found to have defective fire alarms and fire doors; unmaintained fire extinguishers; disconnected smoke and heat detectors; a dangerous staircase; damp; leaking ceilings; overgrown land; and carelessly discarded waste.

Beckhall Properties bosses also failed to provide necessary gas and electrical certificates.

The properties were inspected after an earlier investigation by Manchester City Council.

On that occasion Beckhall Properties were ordered to pay £12,400 after being found guilty of breaches. The firm owns a number of properties in Manchester.

The firm was twice given the chance to talk with council officials but failed to attend an interview.

Manchester deputy council leader Bernard Priest said: “Let the size of the fine send a message – in no uncertain terms – that it is simply unacceptable for landlords to fail in their legal obligations.

“Landlords have a duty to ensure their properties are suitably maintained and are not hazardous to their tenant’s safety. This rogue landlord has failed their tenants, at a number of properties, and will now pay a heavy price.”