Rogue landlord intimidated tenants to drive them out of his property
A BIRMINGHAM millionaire exposed as a rogue landlord after forcing tenants out of his luxury home is appealing against his court conviction.
Zahid Khan, 30, was ordered to carry out 150 hours of community service after forcing out six professionals who had rented out his sprawling Yardley Wood Road property in Moseley.
The millionaire breached regulations and made the tenants quit the property after he ‘intimidated’ them in December last year.
Together with an accomplice, he ordered them from the house and threatened to change the locks if they did not leave. Birmingham Magistrates Court was also told the property breached management regulations, had insufficient smoke alarms, a sparking electrical socket, holes in the ceilings and a trip hazard on the stairs.
Khan was ordered to complete 150 hours of community service and fined £2,000 with costs of £5,070 and a victim surcharge after being found guilty of causing acts likely to interfere with his tenants’ peace and comfort under Section 1(3A) of the Protection from Eviction Act 1977, failure to obtain an HMO licence and breaching HMO Management Regulations.
But it is understood the millionaire, who has an expensive hobby of training to be a pilot, is now appealing against the con- viction. The legal bid is likely to take place in the new year.
Speaking after the case, Birmingham City Council cabinet member for Housing and Homes, Councillor Peter Griffiths, said: “Khan intimidated his tenants, failed to obtain the relevant HMO licence and breached regulations including those designed to protect tenants from the increased threat of fire associated with houses in multiple occupancy.
“This is clearly not acceptable. I am glad that we have been able to support these tenants and bring the successful prosecution of this landlord.
“The private rented sector is hugely important to housing in Birmingham and most landlords and tenants have a good relationship.
“However, when a relationship breaks down we are here to support people, ensuring that the legal process is followed and that people are treated fairly.”