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54
COMMON LODGING HOUSES
There are no common lodging houses in the Borough.
WATER SUPPLY
The Borough's water supply is provided entirely by the
Metropolitan Water Board and has been satisfactory in quality
and quantity. All the dwelling-houses in the Borough are
supplied from public water mains direct to the house. There
are no wells or stand pipes.
RODENT AND PEST CONTROL
Prevention of Damage by Pests Act, 1949
The Council employ two rodent operators. Complaints of
other pests and vermin are dealt with by the disinfecting
staff.
The number of complaints of rodents received during the
year was 520 of which 115 related to rats and 405 to mice.
The figures for 1953 were 467 of which 150 were rats and 317
mice infestations.
Other pest infestations dealt with related to ants, bugs,
cockroaches, fleas, flies, lice, pigeons, wasps, wood lice and
woodworm.
Charges for Rodent Extermination
The Public Health Committee resolved that, until otherwise
decided, no charge be made for the destruction of rats and mice
by the Council at private premises, except in cases where, as a
result of the lack of co-operation on the part of the owner or
occupier, it was found necessary to serve a notice under Section
4 of the Act.
Besides relieving the Department of much administrative
work, this decision has materially assisted the staff in dealing
speedily with complaints of rodent infestation.
In accordance with the Ministry's request, in respect of
all infestations at business premises, charges are made at the rate
of 7s.6d. per hour.