What is the sanction for operating without a licence?

Operating with a deficient licence can give rise to sanctions ranging from an administrative fine to the closure of the business premises. The sanctions are graduated: an administrative fine and suspension of the activity first and, where the deficiency is not made good, sealing and closure of the premises. They rest on the workplace opening-and-operating licence legislation together with the relevant sectoral rules. The exposure does not stop at the administrative penalty either — it can mean an insurance indemnity refused after a loss, default under commercial contracts that require a licence, loss of qualification in tenders, and personal liability for the individuals concerned. That is why closing deficiencies before the business is under scrutiny is usually both safer and cheaper.