A SWANSEA landlord who was caught without a proper licence has found himself in court.

Mohammed Rashid, who owns 3 Gwydr Crescent in Uplands, Swansea, pleaded guilty to 22 charges in relation to the HMO (house of multiple occupancy).

Many of the charges related to the cleanliness and safety of the property.

Swansea Magistrates issued Rashid with a three-year conditional discharge and awarded Swansea Council full costs of £877.

Mr Rashid is the 14th landlord in Swansea to be successfully prosecuted by the council since 2008.

Landlords of HMOs are now being urged to get their properties licensed with the local authority to avoid being prosecuted.

John Hague, cabinet member for the environment in Swansea Council, said: "While Swansea Council is keen to work with good landlords we will continue to use our legal powers with those who fall below the standards required.

"We want to ensure tenants are provided with safe, clean accommodation.

"Any landlord not managing their property to the appropriate level or who does not have a proper licence could find themselves facing criminal charges."

Landlords of HMOs in Swansea must acquire an HMO licence and manage their property in accordance with the HMO management regulations.

There are around 2,000 houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) in Swansea, many of which are located in the two central wards of Castle and Uplands.

All HMOs in Castle and Uplands need to be licensed. HMOs in other areas require a licence if there are three or more floors and five or more occupants.

Mr Hague, added: "Landlords must ensure they have the proper licence if they are renting out an HMO in the city.

"If they are unsure if they need one then I would advise them to contact the council for advice."

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