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(33)
SANITARY CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE AREA.
The tendencies commented upon in previous Annual Reports persisted
during 1951. There was again a slight falling off in the number of complaints
received regarding insanitary conditions,but a sharp rise in the
number of sanitary defects found calling for statutory action. This rise
was again particularly noticeable in the case of the more serious nuisances,
e.g. defective drains, roofs and gutters and damp walls.
It must still be appreciated that the continued housing shortage
makes it necessary to maintain premises which from the public health
point of view would be better demolished.
One circumstance which is becoming more and more apparent is worthy
of note. Many properties in the borough are now held on very short
leases. As reversion dates get near many owners seize the opportunity
to be rid of their approaching obligations by giving away or selling at
nominal rates their leasehold interests to individuals who have no sense
of responsibility either to the public or their tenants. When these
persons take over it soon becomes apparent that their sole aim is the
collection of rent. Attention to repairs, no matter how urgent, plays
no part in their scheme of operation until the utmost pressure is brought
upon them. Sanitary Notices are ignored and even Court Orders often
receive no attention in the first instance.
The activities of these individuals, by no means confined to Fulham,
cause serious hardship and misery to large numbers of families, and present
a challenge to the department which has been firmly taken up. Every
step within the law is actively pursued in the minimum possible time. It
does seem, however, that the ultimate remedy lies with the Magistrates,
who have power to make this anti-social behaviour financially unattractive.
Inspections after complaint 4,646
Re-inspections 16,819
Inspections after Infectious Disease 375
Re-inspections after Infectious Disease 237
Drains tested 548
Drains inspected 1,498
Inspections of Outworkers' Premises 202
Inspections of Food Premises 5,016
Other Visits 1,241
Intimations served 3,667
Statutory Notices served 2,021
Intimations complied with 2,224
Statutory Notices complied with 1,658