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inexpert additions to electrical circuits. Much can be done to limit the spread of fire
by making doors and partitions fire resisting and to check the spread of flame and
smoke by fire stops and smoke screens. The code of practice of the Greater London
Fire Brigade for means of escape in the case of fire in houses in multiple occupation
is applied and 47 houses have been modified to such standards. Leaflets printed
both in English and a number or foreign languages are distributed when necessary,
drawing attention to the added risk of fire when paraffin heaters are used and when
supplies of paraffin are stored inside a house.
Rent Control
The Rent Acts amongst their numerous provisions permit a controlled tenant to
apply for a Certificate of Disrepair when he considers that his accommodation is not
being maintained in a satisfactory state of repair having regard to its age, character
and locality and thus seek an Abatement of his rent; the provisions continued to be
little used, largely it is felt because to most tenants the essential procedure is
somewhat lengthy and involved.
Four such applications were received. In two cases landlords gave formal undertakings
to carry out repairs; in the remaining two cases Certificates of Disrepair
were issued.
Part III of the Housing Act 1969 introduces an entirely new system governing the
rents of privately owned properties enabling controlled tenancies to be converted to
regulated tenancies provided specified standards are achieved, the new rents being
determined under the Rent Act 1968, the Rent Officer being responsible for fixing a
fair rent in each case.
The Act provides for two types of case. The first where the dwelling is to be
provided with some or all of the standard amenities after the commencement of the
Act, and the second where the dwelling is already suitable equipped, the standard
amenities being the basic amenities which can be provided for the first time by
means of a Standard Grant. In both types of case the qualifying conditions are the
same, i.e. that all the standard amenities are available for the exclusive use of
the occupants of the dwelling, that it is in good repair, having regard to its age,
character and locality, and that it is otherwise fit for human habitation.
There is no intention of imposing an immediate and general increase in rent
levels, controlled tenancies becoming regulated between 1st January 1971 and 1st
January 1972 on a descending scale of rateable values, after which the actual rent
increases will be phased over five equal annual stages. In addition the tenants'
legitimate interests are safeguarded in the Act at appropriate stages of the procedures
laid down.
The chief responsibility of local authorities in relation to these rent provisions is
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