Thillakarani Ratnam of 43 Chatsworth Crescent, was fined over £70,000 after a prolonged investigation, led by Hounslow Council’s planning enforcement team.
Published: Thursday, 20th March 2025
In significant enforcement action, Hounslow Council has successfully prosecuted a resident for illegally renting out an outbuilding - discovered being advertised online in 2017 for £1,300 per month - as residential accommodation.
Thillakarani Ratnam of 43 Chatsworth Crescent, was fined over £70,000 after a prolonged investigation, led by Hounslow Council’s planning enforcement team.
Ms. Ratnam failed to comply with an enforcement notice to cease use and remove all kitchen and bathroom facilities, and further investigations - in partnership with the Metropolitan Police - confirmed the outbuilding continued to be occupied.
The court ordered Ms. Ratnam to pay a £15,000 fine, more than £20,000 in court costs and to repay £35,000 gained from the illegal rental.
Cllr Tom Bruce, Deputy Leader of Hounslow Council and Cabinet Member for Assets, Regeneration and Development, said:
This case highlights our commitment to upholding the law and protecting living standards in our communities. It is clear that Hounslow Council will not tolerate housing practices that take advantage of vulnerable individuals and breach our planning regulations.
We will take decisive action against illegal housing to ensure our residents live in safe and appropriate conditions.
The Council's financial investigators were pivotal in uncovering the extent of gains from this illegal activity, emphasising the Council's resolve to tackle unscrupulous rental practices.
Hounslow Council continues to monitor housing compliance issues and will respond to ensure that all residents have access to safe and lawful housing options.
