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Proper records of these inspections have to be made
containing information as to the state of the house, the
action taken to secure the remedy of any defects, and the
result of such action.
The making of systematic house-to-house surveys is
a work of considerable importance. It results in many
houses being prevented from becoming unfit for human
habitation, and enables Local Authorities to enforce a
reasonable standard of fitness. The standard we endeavour
to attain is that laid down in the manual published by the
Ministry of Health, in which it is stated that a fit house
should be free from dampness, satisfactorily lighted and
ventilated, properly drained and provided with adequate
sanitary conveniences and with a sink and suitable arrangements
for disposing of slop water. It should be in good
general repair, and should have a satisfactory water supply,
adequate washing accommodation, adequate facilities for
preparing and cooking food, and a well ventilated food store.
Owners of property in the district, as a rule, carry out
the work specified by the department without it being necessary
to serve statutory notices under the Housing Act, and
work for the reconditioning of existing dwelling houses is
constantly in progress.
During the year 1928, 370 house-to-house surveys were
made; as compared with 439 in 1927.
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