A DARTFORD landlord who locked his tenants out of their flats by changing the locks has been fined.

Sundra Tony Padayachee, 51, of Dene Road, pleaded guilty to altering the locks on three different occasions during 2011 at the flats he rented to tenants in West Hill.

A Dartford Council prosecution under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977 saw Padayachee brought in front of magistrates in Dartford on February 12.

He admitted four counts of harassing an occupier to give up occupation of a premises.

Magistrates fined him a total of £600 and he was also ordered to pay £200 in costs.

Dartford Council’s portfolio holder for housing, Councillor Pat Coleman said, “We’re satisfied with the outcome of this case.

“It sends out a clear message that action will be taken by the council to deal with landlords who break the law.

“The majority of the borough’s landlords are responsible and law abiding and we work with them to offer both landlords and tenants support and advice on their rights and responsibilities.”