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710
Firstly, the operation of certain of them—and those not the
least important—has been postponed until six months after the
Rent Restriction Acts shall have ceased to operate. The postponed
bye-laws include that requiring the provision of adequate closet
and washing accommodation, and facilities for the storage, preparation
and cooking of food—essentials for a civilised existence.
Secondly, there is the widespread lack of alternative accommodation
available for families living in unsatisfactory lodgings.
This is especially found in the case of large families whose income
is low, and who are tied to the neighbourhood by local employment
or who are unable to pay the economic rents of houses available on
the L.C.C. Housing Estates.
Last year a register of one hundred houses let in lodgings was
prepared, but that has not been added to during this year.
There are no tents, vans, sheds or canal boats to require supervision.
There are no offensive trades carried on in the Borough.
Underground Sleeping Rooms.—There are no local regulations
made under Sect. 18 of the Housing Act, 1925. Cases of
underground rooms improperly used as sleeping rooms have been
dealt with under the powers given by Sect. 96 of the Public Health
(London) Act. If an underground room is the sole dwelling of a
family, it must conform to certain requirements to be legally
habitable.
Action has been taken in four cases—in two the improper use
was abated through the tenants being persuaded to leave to destinations
unknown; in one case alternative accommodation was
found upon one of the L.C.C. Estates; the fourth still awaits
abatement.
OTHER SANITARY CONDITIONS REQUIRING NOTICE.
House Drainage.—The supervision of drainage is undertaken
by the Sanitary Inspectors in their respective districts. During 1927:
New drains constructed 19
Existing drains tested and found sound 58