Landlord admits to breaking into tenant's home and ripping out bathroom because of owed rent
It would be fair to say that landlords don’t take too kindly to overdue rent, but I’m sure few would resort to such extreme actions taken by Terrence Kermode of Hawarden, Flintshire.
To say that Terrence lacked a bit of patience regarding the overdue rent is a bit of an understatement given the dramatic events which followed.
The 76-year-old proceeded to rip out the toilet, sink, and other bathroom parts from his own rental property, after what was described as a 'moment of madness'.
Advert
The bloke had been leasing properties for more than 30 years, and admitted to damaging the property after realising outstanding cash was due from a tenant.
He pleaded guilty to unlawfully evicting and harassing a tenant under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977 at Mold Magistrates Court on 15 September.
The landlord’s behaviour was described as 'outrageous' in actions likened to pretty much breaking into someone’s home and taking belongings from it.
You can see from the startling image below how the toilet and sink were ripped out, while several items were left in the bath. A pipe was also left hanging from the wall, along with holes in both the floor and wall.
Terrence's age of 76, the fact he had no prior convictions and his guilty plea, were all mitigating factors in his sentencing.
However, he still received a £1,000 fine, a surcharge of £100, and was told to pay costs of more than £2,600 that must be paid within 28 days.
Christopher Bithell, Flintshire council’s cabinet member for planning, public health, and public protection 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 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.”
James Hilsum