A landlord has been fined after inadequate drainage and a build-up of waste at a residential home created a serious health and vermin risk.

Enforcement officers at Durham County Council inspected a house in Horden in August last year following concerns around the state and condition of the rear yard.

A blocked drain gully and incomplete waste provision to allow for proper drainage meant large amounts of waste materials had accumulated at the rear of the property.

A council tax search highlighted Front Worth Limited, of Pinfold Street, Birmingham, to be the owner of the property, with these details being later confirmed by a Land Registry check.

But the company failed to declare its interest in the property and has now been ordered to pay more than £1,800.

The Northern Echo: The accumulation of waste materialsThe accumulation of waste materials (Image: Durham County Council)

A notice under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act, requiring the owner to carry out works to keep the land and property free from vermin, was served by the council but was not responded to.

A separate response, however, was received from an individual who stated that the property did not belong to Front Worth Limited and that it had been sold some time ago.

But the authority found there was clear evidence it was the registered proprietor and officers served a separate notice, requiring the company to state, in writing, the nature of its interest in the property in Horden within 14 days.

However, it is yet to receive a reply and officers have not been able to progress the matter.

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The Northern Echo: Blocked house drain within the drainage inspection chamberBlocked house drain within the drainage inspection chamber (Image: Durham County Council)

The case was heard in the defendant's absence at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court, where the company was fined £1,100 and ordered to pay £300 costs and a £440 victim surcharge, totalling £1,840.

Owen Cleugh, Durham County Council public protection manager, said: "All landlords have a duty to follow the necessary guidance and ensure appropriate work is carried out to their properties to help protect the health and safety of tenants and communities.

"While the majority of landlords work with us to ensure this remains the case, we hope this prosecution serves as a warning to the minority who fail to comply with instructions. This behaviour will not be tolerated and we will always take action where necessary."