Property expert says common household habits that could result in £11K fines

A property expert has shared a string of relatively common household habits which could leave people facing fines of £11,000.

There’s many laws, rules and regulations in the UK and while most like to think they’re adept at wading through them all and staying on the right side of the law, some slip ups can, and do, happen. It’s especially difficult to keep on top of all legalities because the UK has multiple legal systems. This is due to the country being formed by the political union of previously independent countries. The legal systems in England and Wales are combined, while and Northern Ireland have their own legal systems.

Experts from quick house sale company have shared property laws which could land people with fines in excess of £11,000:

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Opening other people’s post – unlimited fine

It can be particularly annoying to get post through your letterbox addressed to someone else, with an ex-tenant or owner named. If you open other people’s mail, you could face a prison sentence between six months to two years.

It can lead to a Level 5 fine which, for offences prior to March 13 2015, was £5,000 but is no longer capped and can be unlimited.

Knock-a-door-run – up to £500

A childhood favourite for many but a definite annoyance to those whose doors are being knocked at. According to , this regularly ignored law could cost up to £500 in fines.

Wheelie bin nuisance – up to £80

Your wheelie bin can end up costing you £80 if it’s classed as causing a nuisance. For example, if your bin creates an obstruction to neighbours, or forces people in wheelchairs or with pushchairs onto the road.

Unfair eviction – up to £5,000

New rules can be introduced without people realising but ignorance is no defence in the eyes of the law. With changes as recent as this year, renters have increasing rights when renting a property and unfair eviction can cost up to £5,000, alongside a potential two-year prison sentence.

Untidy garden – up to £500

While you’ll likely get a warning beforehand, if it’s ignored then an untidy garden could attract pests, which could then land you with a fine of up to £500.

Throwing out a TV – up to £5,000

Given the price of modern TVs, getting stung with a fine for throwing one out with your household waste isn’t worth it. There are a range of ways to get rid of your TV, like donating or selling.

If it’s faulty or beyond repair, then councils often help with picking it up for a small fee. You can also look at taking it to the appropriate tip/recycling centre as it’s illegal to get rid of it with household waste, with a hefty fine of up to £5,000.

Some of these laws have prompted discussions on social media. On TikTok, a video reminding social media users that it’s illegal to open someone else’s post sparked a flurry of comments.

One person said: “I find it astonishing that some of the sentencing for this is more than other thefts and crimes - law needs to change”.

Another confessed: “I have always opened it”, while someone else added: “Opened hundreds and also replied to some.”

Nima Ghasri of Good Move commented: “Nobody wants to face a fine, and whether it’s homeowner, landlord, or tenant, there are certain responsibilities when it comes to any home. It’s vital to keep yourself updated with your responsibilities and the law because it could cost you significantly if you don’t.”