Landlord & Buy-to-Let Magazine | Page 10

For latest show news visit www.landlordshow.info industry news Landlord with 14 properties banned from letting A rogue South Ayrshire landlord who rented out private accommodation that failed to meet required safety standards and could potentially have put lives at risk has been banned from operating as a landlord by South Ayrshire Council. The action – which confirms Leonardo Ippolito, from Ayr, is not considered a fit and proper person to be registered as a private landlord – is the first of its kind taken by the Council. It follows decisions by the Council's Regulatory Panel to revoke his registration in November 2013 and to refuse a new application for registration in August 2014 – decisions which were based on the conditions of the properties Mr Ippolito rented out. Mr Ippolito had appealed both decisions. However, at Ayr Sheriff Court today, he submitted an undertaking that he had exhausted his right of appeal and agreed not to pursue any further action. This means it becomes a criminal offence for him to operate as a landlord once he has discharged his duties to end his tenancies. This brings to an end several years' attempts by Council officers to ensure Mr Ippolito's numerous rented properties – with up to 14 rented out at any one time – met all legal and safety requirements. Inspections of the properties – which are mainly located within Ayr town centre – identified a number of serious risks and concerns, including: • A flat in High Street, Ay