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In what is thought to be the first case of its kind, a man from Sheffield, Rami Nazzal, has been prosecuted for sub-letting his council property and then forcibly evicting the tenant. So essentially he has been prosecuted for both offences at the same time.
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Landmark Case
“This person was breaking the law on two accounts – by illegally sub-letting his rented home and by forcing an eviction. This has been recognised by the courts and I hope it sends a strong message that rogue landlords will not be tolerated,” says Jayne Dunn, Sheffield cabinet member for housing.
“We want people to be able to live in good, safe housing, where their rights are respected.”
Illegal Eviction
The former tenant claimed Nazzal didn’t tell him the property was owned by the local authority. He told reporters everything was fine until Nazzal demanded extra rent when the tenant said he was leaving. The tenant refused to pay.
“He started throwing my books about and ripping the bed sheets off. I asked what he was doing because a few days ago everything was fine. He grabbed me and pushed me out of the property and threatened I’d never see my possessions again if I called the police.”
Sheffield City Council Housing Department is hoping that this landmark case will send out the message to other rogue landlords operating in the area that good landlords are welcome and rogue landlords will not be tolerated.
Nazzal was fined £1,923 plus £250 victim compensation.
