Swale Borough Council has fined two landlords a total of £25,200 for operating an overcrowded HMO in Sittingbourne.
After the council’s housing enforcement team carried out an investigation following an internal referral, they found more people living in the property than permitted.
According to the council, the landlords were found to be in breach of the Housing Act 2004 after it was found that a kitchen within the HMO had been converted into a self-contained unit for a couple.
Cllr Angela Harrison, chair of the council’s Housing and Health Committee, said: "This is a significant fine which sends a clear message to HMO landlords that we will not tolerate breaches of licence conditions or management regulations.
“Overcrowded living conditions aren’t just unpleasant for those living there, but increases the risk of hazards like fire, and can mean people don’t have access to essential amenities.
“The safety of tenants is paramount, and we will continue to take firm action against those who fail to meet their legal obligations.”
