A letting agency in Belfast has been penalised for not registering a tenancy deposit.

Bowden Property Group Ltd was fined £1,600 for failing to protect a deposit of £340.

The company failed to attend Belfast Magistrates’ Court this week (Tuesday 16 April) and were convicted in their absence for failing to secure the tenancy deposit.

The Private Tenancy (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 Article 5B requires landlord/agent (the person who receives the deposit) to secure the tenant deposit within 28 days of receipt.

A Fixed Penalty had been issued for £1,020 but was not paid, therefore Court action resulted.