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93
In the majority of instances in these working class houses in the City
the structure is in a fair state of preservation, but considerable variation
exists in regard to the internal fittings, accessibility of sanitary accommodation,
water supply and other amenities. It is encouraging to note that
there is a definite tendency on the part of owners of this class of house
to increase and improve amenities for their tenants. Prospective tenants
are more and more inclined to expect baths or other conveniences for
washing, proper provision for cooking, food storage, etc. Nevertheless it
is evident that, by comparison, there are few which approach the standard
of convenience and comfort existing in the City Council's own flats.
The general conditions of cleanliness are dependent to a large degree
upon the tenant. Many take pride in the upkeep of their homes; others
through carelessness or ignorance, allow their dwellings to become dirty
and verminous.
In some instances neglect on the part of owners reacts on the
occupiers, who may become likewise inured to dirty and unsatisfactory
surroundings. But this is becoming less frequent than was the case some
years ago.
Undoubtedly the moral effect of the Housing Survey, apart from the
actual service of notices, has played some part in creating a desire for
cleanliness and better conditions on the part of both owners and tenants.
The most unsatisfactory type of tenant is nearly always found in badly
maintained houses. The reason for this may well be that owners become
discouraged in constantly re-decorating, carrying out repairs, etc., for tenants,
who through neglect or carelessness, fail to take sufficient interest
in their homes to keep them clean and tidy. This comment, however,
does not apply generally to basements. These are sought by tenants who
are often unable to pay the rents of rooms above ground level, or who have
families of young children and find the lower rents and separate entrances
more advantageous.
In these dwellings the average rent including basement rooms may be
put at 6s. 8d. per room. This compares unfavourably with that of the
Council's dwellings at 4s. 3d. per room.
Tenements Combined with Business Premises.
This type of working class dwelling is to be found chiefly in the northern
wards of the City and may be roughly divided into two classes ; selfcontained
flats and ordinary rooms occupied as a tenement.
The dwelling rooms are sometimes over shops; in others they form
part of the business or are let off for that purpose.