A landlord who illegally rented out a South Croydon flat to tenants has paid the price for ignoring Croydon Council.

Over a six month period, Raymond Brock was reminded by the council "several times" that he needed to apply for a licence on the home in Warham Road and pay the £750 licence fee.

He failed to do either and continued to rent to tenants.

Mr Brock, of Bedwardine Road in Upper Norwood, also failed to respond to council notices that legally required him to give more information about the property.

In total, Mr Brock was fined £6,000, something Councillor Alison Butler hopes will deter other landlords from making the same mistakes.

“We introduced the landlord licensing scheme to ensure all those who rent in the borough live in a decent home," she said.

"The vast majority of Croydon landlords are responsible and get the proper licence, but this case shows we will continue to take enforcement action where needed to ensure all homes are licensed.

“I hope this £6,000 fine will make any landlord considering dodging their legal duty to think again.”