A Teignmouth landlord has been fined £10k by Teignbridge District Council for failing to undertake repairs after a complaint from a tenant.

The council said that it was the first time that its private sector housing team had levied a fixed penalty notice under the Housing Act 2004, and that it felt "it had no other option... with over six months elapsing without the repairs being made."

An improvement notice had been issued to the landlord last year after a council officer visited the property and identified a "defective fire detection system", other fire safety concerns, "hazardous" stairs, and a leaking roof. 

Executive Member for Housing Cllr Martin Wrigley (Lib Dem, Dawlish North East) said: "We are determined to tackle rogue landlords who do not maintain rented properties properly and put residents at risk.

"It is really important that anyone renting a property in Teignbridge can be confident that it is a safe place to live.

"It is disappointing that although the landlord had plenty of time to do the work, they didn't get it done. When an improvement notice has been served, Teignbridge Council expects it to be carried out, so that tenants are not at risk."

Under the Housing Act 2004, Teignbridge District Council said that it "has a legal duty to act". In this case, for example, 'Category 1 hazards' were identified and the £10k fine needs to be paid within 28 days.