Arun District Council protects tenants from unsafe housing conditions
Tenants in Littlehampton have been safeguarded thanks to enforcement action taken by Arun District Council against a landlord and property management company who failed to carry out essential repairs.
Following repeated inspections of a flat in Bayford Road, Littlehampton, council officers identified serious issues including damp, mould growth, and excess cold, as well as disrepair to windows and external doors. An Improvement Notice was served under the Housing Act 2004, requiring remedial works to be completed to ensure the property met acceptable living standards.
Despite being given the opportunity to address the problems, Meynell Limited and Ms Vilma Edmonds, the company's sole director and landlord responsible for the property, failed to comply with the notice. As a result, the council pursued legal action to uphold tenants' rights and ensure accountability.
On 29 May 2025, Crawley Magistrates Court found both Meynell Limited and Ms Edmonds guilty in their absence. They were ordered to pay a combined total of £16,267, which includes fines, victim surcharges, and costs awarded to the council.
Councillor Amanda Worne, Chair of the Environment Committee at Arun District Council, said: "This outcome sends a clear message: Arun District Council will not hesitate to take action where landlords neglect their legal responsibilities. The health and safety of tenants is a priority, and the council remains committed to ensuring that all rented accommodation in the district is safe, secure, and maintained to a high standard."