Two landlords from Somerset, husband and wife David and Joanna Fuller, have been banned from renting or managing properties after repeatedly providing substandard accommodation to their tenants. The Fullers faced multiple prosecutions for breaching housing regulations and failing to comply with enforcement notices issued by Somerset Council.
In May 2025, the Property Tribunal imposed a six-year Banning Order on David Fuller of The Old Court House, Yeovil, and a three-year Banning Order on Joanna Fuller from the same address. Both were prohibited from any involvement with their rental properties starting from 1 September 2025. Their attempts to appeal the Orders in July 2025 were denied, as the tribunal found no reasonable prospect of success.
Under section 14 of the Housing and Planning Act 2016, Banning Orders are reserved for the most serious offenders who ignore their legal duties and provide unsafe or inadequate housing. These Orders prevent the Fullers from renting properties, managing them, or employing others to do so on their behalf. They are also barred from receiving rent payments directly from tenants.
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Chris Hall, Executive Director for Community, Place and Economy at Somerset Council, emphasized the council’s commitment to supporting compliant landlords while taking firm action against those who flout the rules. “We are satisfied with the outcome of these court cases and hope it sends a strong message to other landlords about the consequences of breaching their duties,” he said.
The council’s Private Sector Housing Team continues to work diligently to ensure residents live in safe, healthy homes suitable to their needs. Tenants affected by this order are encouraged to contact Somerset’s local housing team for support and advice on securing alternative accommodation.
Throughout the process, Clarke Willmott LLP represented Somerset Council, with Toby Huggins of Unity Street Chambers acting at the April 2025 hearing. The council expressed gratitude for their legal assistance in achieving a result that better protects vulnerable tenants.