An infamous Cardiff landlord is facing increased costs after his appeal to reduce fines for safety violations at his rental property was rejected. Nazir Ahmed, 67, from Albany Road, Cardiff, was fined nearly £40,000 for severe breaches at his property in Broadway, Adamsdown. He appeared at Cardiff Crown Court seeking an adjournment to gather evidence claiming he couldn’t make repairs due to anti-social behaviour and squatters. However, the court denied his request, citing insufficient grounds. The property issues came to light in April 2023 after concerns were raised by South Wales Police, leading to an inspection revealing a catalogue of safety hazards.
The two-storey Victorian property had been illegally divided into four flats without necessary permissions. Council inspections highlighted numerous violations, including insecure entrances, defective fire doors, no electricity supply due to meter tampering, rodent infestation, and unsafe kitchen facilities. Emergency Prohibition Orders were issued, forcing tenants to vacate the premises. Ahmed was prosecuted for multiple offences related to housing regulations, resulting in fines totaling £37,000, along with additional costs.
Following an unsuccessful appeal, Ahmed is now required to pay £42,521.84, including increased legal fees. Cardiff Council’s cabinet member for housing and communities, Lynda Thorne, emphasized the importance of maintaining safe rental housing and the consequences faced by landlords who endanger tenants. The case serves as a cautionary example of the consequences of neglecting safety standards in rented properties.
This incident underscores the critical role of responsible landlords in providing safe accommodation and the need for strict enforcement of housing regulations to protect tenants from unsafe living conditions. The increased penalties imposed on Ahmed aim to send a clear message about the importance of upholding safety standards in the rental sector to ensure the well-being of residents.