TWO Yeovil-based landlords have been banned from letting properties after being prosecuted for breaches of housing standards – and failing to comply with enforcement notices.

In May, a Property Tribunal made a Banning Order for six years against David Fuller, of The Old Court House, Yeovil, and Joanna Fuller, also of the Old Court House, for three years.

Banning Orders can be sought in cases where landlords “flout their legal obligations and rent out accommodation which is substandard”, the council said.

And last month, an application to appeal the Banning Orders, and permission to appeal further, was refused when the courts deemed them as having no reasonable prospect of success.

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Now, Mr and Mrs Fuller are banned from renting, managing or having any involvement with properties they own from September 1. They cannot employ any business or person associated with them to run these properties or take rent directly from tenants.

Chris Hall, executive director community, place and economy, said: “We work closely with Somerset landlords and support them to meet their legal obligations. However, we will not shy away from taking strong enforcement action and applying sanctions where they are needed.

“The council is satisfied with the outcome of these court cases and hopes it sends a strong message to deter other landlords from breaching their duties.

“The council’s private sector housing team is working hard every day to ensure residents live in homes that are safe, healthy and appropriate for their needs.”

Anyone who thinks they may be affected by the order should contact the local housing team for advice on finding a new property, with information also available at somerset.gov.uk/housing-support.

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