22 Mar 2013
A London landlord who rented out rooms in a disused pub has been given a suspended prison sentence for breaching fire safety laws.
The old Tavern Inn the Town pub in Kentish Town was subjected to a fire safety audit in January 2010, with London Fire Brigade (LFB) saying various issues were raised such as the absence of a fire detection system and unsatisfactory escape routes.
People were found sleeping on mattresses inside the premises when a subsequent visit was carried out in June of that year.
During questioning. Anthony O’Leary admitted the building was being used as sleeping accommodation and he was reminded about the severe dangers of using the property as a bedsit.
As well as a suspended prison sentence, Mr O’Leary was ordered to carry out 100 hours of community service.
Steve Turek, LFB’s assistant commissioner for fire safety regulation, said there is a continuing concern that tenants are living in unsuitable buildings in London.
However, he said the sentence should send out “a clear message” to building owners that they will face tough penalties if they fail to comply with fire safety laws.
Copyright Press Association 2013