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The work of the Measurement Survey for the purpose of
ascertaining the "permitted number" for each working class dwelling,
and for the furnishing of this information to landlords, or occupiers
upon request, was continued until the end of May, 1938.
From its inception until this date, measurements were made of
33,261 rooms, comprising 11,028 separate dwellings, in 4,605 workingclass
houses. In 283 houses where measurements were taken, 827
rooms were found to be unoccupied, but advantage was taken of the
opportunity to measure such rooms. In addition 139 houses were
found to be totally unoccupied.
In all instances in which application was made for the "permitted
numbei", the information has been promptly supplied. Towards the
end of the year it was thought desirable to remind house agents and
others of the necessity for inserting this and other information in rent
books and a circular letter was addressed to all known agents, etc.,
drawing their attention to the obligations imposed by Sections 4 and
62 of the Housing Act, 1936.
Whenever a Sanitary Inspector discovers that a rent book does not
contain the information prescribed by Sections 4 and 62, an intimation
is sent. Should this fail to secure compliance with the law a special
letter is sent by registered post or served by hand, pointing out the
requirements of the Statute and failing compliance therewith the matter
is reported to the Housing Committee, who may authorise the
institution of legal proceedings.
A case was brought to notice during the year in which it appeared
that a man, his wife and three children were living in overcrowded
conditions in contravention of Section 59 of the Housing Act, 1936.
The landlord had been informed of the permitted number on the 7th