FIRE safety breaches which left residents at risk have seen a managing agent slapped with fines totalling nearly £25,000.

Martyn Russell, of Chapel Green, Wokingham, faced 31 charges when he appeared at Reading Magistrates' Court.

The 63-year-old and his company, Martyn Russell Property Services Ltd, were found to have failed to maintain the fire alarm system, despite repeated requests from the residents over several months.

Councillors have slammed Russell for showing 'complete disregard' for the safety of the tenants, who consulted with Reading Borough Council as part of the investigation.

The house in multiple occupation (HMO) on Russell Street fell into disrepair and the problems were eventually reported.

Inspectors found the main fire alarm system was not working and the hallways were also obstructed, raising serious concerns about the safety of residents.

The court heard how the fire doors were inadequate and the fire extinguishers were not being maintained properly.

Russell admitted to all of the charges and the company was fined a total of £15,000. The director was also fined £7,500 and ordered to pay costs of £445.

Councillor John Ennis, lead member for housing, said: “There is no excuse for anyone responsible for a HMO to have a fire alarm in place which is not working.

"There is even less excuse for that person to ignore repeated requests to fix the problem urgently.

“This appears to show a complete disregard for the safety of the tenants of this four-storey building, not to mention the shoddy condition of other parts of the property.

“A majority of landlords and agents in the private rented sector in Reading are responsible and law abiding but it is reassuring to know the Council is there to tackle the minority who disregard the rules.”

The court considered the offences to be very serious, especially in relation to the fire risks and obstruction of the fire escape route.