An irate landlord who claims his tenants hadn't paid their rent ripped out their entire bathroom in a "moment of madness". Terrence Kermode, 76, tore out the toilet, sink and bathroom fittings over the outstanding rent and bills.
Magistrates said that Kermode, who has been a private landlord for 30 years, had essentially broken into the home and removed the bathroom as well as other belongings. He was prosecuted by Flintshire County Council’s Environmental Health Officers for the unlawful eviction and harassment of a tenant living in the rented accommodation.
Appearing at Mold Magistrates Court, Kermode pleaded guilty to the offence under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977 and the matter was adjourned to a sentencing hearing. On September 15, the court heard that the offender had entered a guilty plea at the first opportunity and had no prior convictions, the Liverpool Echo reports.
It was heard that Kermode had ripped out the bathroom in a “moment of madness” in the knowledge there was rent and bills outstanding. In accordance with the pre-sentencing report, the Magistrates handed down a Financial Penalty (Band D fine of £1000), a court surcharge (£100) and awarded FCC’s full costs (£2,623.14). Mr Kermode has 28 days to pay.
Flintshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning, Public Health and Public Protection, Councillor Christopher Bithell, said: "We believe everyone has the right to live in a home which is in good repair, safe, warm and secure. Whilst we aim to reduce the health effects of poor housing conditions through a combination of advice and financial assistance, occasionally we deal with matters that are so serious a prosecution is necessary.
"This successful prosecution sends out a clear message to landlords that Flintshire County Council will do all it can to protect its residents from unlawful eviction and harassment. It reflects Flintshire’s commitment to ensuring homes in the private rented sector are properly managed and that tenants are afforded the security that they need during the current cost of living crisis.”
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