A 76-year-old Bradford landlord with a history of housing regulation breaches has been found guilty of multiple offences relating to poor conditions at three of his houses in multiple occupation (HMOs).
Hasan Kazi, who owns 18 properties in Bradford housing approximately 100 tenants, was convicted following a prosecution by Bradford Council. The case centred on properties in Easby Road and Ashgrove.
Evidence of poor conditions
The court heard that the properties suffered from rodent and cockroach infestations, leaking roofs, broken fire doors and blocked drains. According to evidence presented, human waste and used toilet paper emerged from external pipework and collected in guttering.
Council inspectors reported finding rotten food inside a broken fridge, whilst one tenant had been instructed to place a rug over a damp patch caused by a ceiling leak. Adhesive tape had been used in attempted roof repairs, but the roof continued leaking, including during a council inspection.
Previous enforcement history
The prosecution was permitted to introduce evidence of Kazi’s previous conduct following a successful ‘bad character’ application. Tribunal and court records show the landlord had previously been fined £43,000 after tenants were found living in rodent-infested flats with serious disrepair issues.
Records reveal a number of other enforcement cases dating back to at least 2017, involving fire safety failings, waste accumulation and poor living conditions linked to his Bradford HMOs. Such cases reflect a broader pattern of regulatory enforcement against non-compliant landlords, with authorities increasingly pursuing substantial penalties for HMO violations.
Deputy District Judge Imran Hussain told Kazi: “In my judgement the evidence against you is overwhelming. I thought your evidence was vague, inconsistent at times, and at times fanciful.” The judge warned that Kazi now faces a “significant financial penalty”.
Sentencing pending
Kazi will return to court at a later date when the size of the financial penalty will be determined. The case adds to growing concerns about enforcement effectiveness in the private rented sector, particularly regarding repeat offenders in the HMO market.
