Fife landlord first to be banned in Scottish court

A landlord in Fife has become the first in Scotland to be banned from renting out properties after doing so despite being denied entry to the council’s landlord register.

At Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court, Mohammed Murtaza, 47, was found to have breached anti-social behaviour legislation and was fined £500 by Sheriff Gilchrist.

Mr Murtaza was previously convicted in November 2014 as a result of failing to comply with the legislation as well as gas safety rules and was refused registration in June 2015.

The refusal meant it was a criminal offence for him to let properties in the region.

John Mills, the council’s head of housing said: “A significant proportion of private landlords are of good character and comply with the law – however, there are some who act unlawfully.

“We work closely with our partner services including private housing standards, safer communities, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland to assist and support landlords to comply with the legislative requirements of being fit and proper landlords.

“The outcome of this particular case sends a clear message to private landlords in Fife that the council will continue to take all appropriate action to protect tenants and improve property standards in the private sector.”