A LANDLORD who has branded himself as a “humanitarian” is facing legal action over a string of safety breaches at his town-centre property.

Robert Crow, who both lives in and rents out rooms in 19 Devereux Road, Southend, appeared in court where he denied 16 charges of breaching regulations for Homes of Multiple Occupancy (HMO).

Crow, who has previously told the Echo he is a qualified electrical engineer, lives in flat two of four within the large property near Southend town centre.

Crow, who appeared in the dock wearing green trousers, a white shirt and jacket, denied all charges at Southend Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

The charges allege that Crow has made the property suitable to rent out to multiple tenants.

The charges also allege that he has converted parts of the property for residential use which he was prohibited from doing by an order.

Southend Council, who are prosecuting Crow, claim the basement and the rear yard of the property have been converted to allow more people to rent space in the home.

Two charges relates to not keeping a clear and unobstructed fire escape to the flats and one charge relates to not providing adequate bin and refuse storage.

Details of the charges also included that the kitchen and shower were both in poor state, that they were kept in an unclean condition and that the appliances are unsafe.

Crow, who has previously described himself as a “humanitarian landlord”, has also been charged with not keeping the ventilation or windows in flats one, two, three and four in working order.

The council also claim that, despite them issuing a letter demanding proof three years ago, Crow has still failed to provide certificates to prove that the gas and electrical appliances have been safety tested.

The case has been adjourned for a trial which will take place at Basildon Magistrates’ Court on September 3 later this year.