cfoembersonThree men who failed to take the correct fire precautions in nine Kettering properties have been prosecuted by Northamptonshire County Council’s fire and rescue service.

Following an investigation launched after a fire at one of the priorities, Northants successfully prosecuted the owner and the managing agents of all properties.

At Northampton Crown Court, the owner Ajit Singh was sentenced to nine months in prison and ordered to pay costs of £7,500 with three other defendents given fines of £4,000 combined.

Chief Fire Officer Martyn Emberson (pictured) said "This case clearly demonstrates how seriously fire safety breaches are viewed by the courts. I hope it sends a clear message out to landlords and managing agents across Northamptonshire.

“We proactively look for suspected HMOs because we know these are the highest risk premises, housing vulnerable people who are being exploited by landlords who won’t fit fire doors or fire alarm systems. These simple precautions are affordable and would save the lives of their tenants should a fire occur.

“Where we find systematic non-compliance or a severe breach putting lives at risk we will take enforcement action and in the serious cases we will prosecute those responsible.”