Auckland Boarding House Fined Over $27,000 for Tenancy Violations
A Auckland boarding house, lodge cast iron Burnley Lodge Limited, has been fined over $27,000 for violating tenancy responsibilities and failing to meet Healthy Homes Standards. The Tenancy Tribunal's decision follows a referral from Auckland Council and multiple inspections revealing severe health and safety issues.
The Tribunal found Burnley Lodge guilty of providing false or misleading information on tenancy agreements and mishandling tenant bond payments. The property was discovered to be dirty and unsafe, with heavy black mould and unapproved bedrooms. Despite warnings and inspections, the company failed to address these serious concerns.
The Tribunal made it clear that non-compliance with tenancy responsibilities would not be tolerated. They also noted that while the director, Jonathan Duncan, had made progress towards compliance, another shareholder caused significant harm by being uncooperative with MBIE. The name of this non-compliant shareholder is not publicly available.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's (MBIE) Tenancy Compliance and Investigations Team (TCIT) discovered the issues after the referral from Auckland Council. The Tribunal's decision awarded $27,457.94 to MBIE on behalf of the tenants.
Burnley Lodge Limited has been ordered to pay over $27,000 for its breaches. The company has also been issued a restraining order by the Tribunal, prohibiting further breaches of tenancy obligations for four years. This sends a strong message to other operators that non-compliance will not be tolerated.
