A LANDLORD has been handed a suspended jail sentence after a mother, her partner and eight-year-old daughter were poisoned by carbon monoxide at a Catford flat.

Gail Calvert, partner Stephen Clayden and the girl inhaled large quantities of the gas in a ground floor property on Iona Close last November.

Although they were saved from further harm after a carbon monoxide alarm sounded in a flat above, the trio needed overnight hospital treatment.

Westminster Magistrates’ Court heard today (15 August) that the source of the leak was a faulty gas boiler in their flat, which they rented from David MacDonald.

The carbon monoxide led to flats being evacuated by fire crews and the gas supply being disconnected by Southern Gas Networks.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed evidence of poor maintenance and showed the boiler was emitting high levels of carbon monoxide, the court heard.

MacDonald, from Camberwell, had earlier pleaded guilty to two separate breaches of gas safety regulations.

He was sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for two years, ordered to carry out 200 hours of community service and pay £8,211 in costs.

After the hearing HSE inspector Kevin Shorten said: "Carbon monoxide can kill quickly without warning and approximately 20 people die each year as a result of poisoning from gas appliances and flues that haven’t been properly installed, maintained or that are poorly ventilated.

"Had a neighbour’s carbon monoxide alarm not sounded, the family could well be among that number.

"As a landlord, David Macdonald is legally responsible for the safety of his tenants in relation to gas checks, and in failing to properly maintain the boiler he placed them, and others, in grave danger.

"I hope today’s prosecution sends a clear message to all landlords that they mustn’t shirk or ignore their responsibilities because the consequences can be devastating."