(1)While a final letting notice is in force in relation to premises, the landlord of the premises may not carry out, or permit the carrying out of, any works to the premises without the written consent of the local authority that served the notice.
(2)In subsection (1), “works to the premises” include the alteration or removal of any fixtures or fittings on the premises.
(3)Subsection (1) does not apply to works that are—
(a)urgently necessary for repair or preservation, or
(b)necessary to fulfil an obligation of the landlord, other than one voluntarily assumed after the initial letting notice preceding the final letting notice took effect.
(4)The local authority must—
(a)give or refuse consent under subsection (1) within a reasonable time after it is sought, and
(b)must give such consent unless there are reasonable grounds for refusing it, concerning the exercise or contemplated exercise of the authority’s powers under the following provisions of this Part in relation to the premises.
(5)A person who contravenes subsection (1) without reasonable excuse commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 4 on the standard scale.