Two Yeovil-based landlords have received Banning Orders for repeated prosecutions for breaches of housing standards, and repeated failures to comply with Council enforcement notices.
Banning Orders can be sought, under section 14 of the Housing and Planning Act 2016, in cases where landlords flout their legal obligations and rent out accommodation which is substandard. They are used only for the most serious offenders.
In May 2025, the Property Tribunal made a Banning Order for six years from against Mr David Fuller of The Old Court House, Yeovil. A Banning Order was also made against Mrs Joanna Fuller, also of the Old Court House, Yeovil for three years.
In July 2025 an application to appeal the Banning Orders, and permission to appeal further, was refused as having no reasonable prospect of success
The Orders prevent Mr and Mrs Fuller from renting, managing or having any involvement with the properties that they own from 1 September 2025. They cannot employ any business or person associated with them to run these properties or take rent directly from tenants.
Chris Hall, Executive Director Community, Place & Economy, said:
“We work closely with Somerset landlords and support them to meet their legal obligations. However, we will not shy away from taking strong enforcement action and applying sanctions where they are needed. The council is satisfied with the outcome of these court cases and hopes it sends a strong message to deter other landlords from breaching their duties. The council’s private sector housing team is working hard every day to ensure residents live in homes that are safe, healthy and appropriate for their needs.”
If you are a tenant effected by this Order please contact the local housing team for advice on finding a new property. Information is also available on our website under Housing and Homelessness https://www.somerset.gov.uk/housing-support/
Clarke Willmott LLP acted for Somerset Council throughout this process, with Toby Huggins of Unity Street Chambers representing the Council at its hearing in April 2025. The Council is grateful for the work carried out to achieve an outcome that offers better protection to vulnerable tenants.
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