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the nature of the proposed repairs. During the year, there
have been 45 plans submitted. It will be noted that in addition
to the drains repaired that are referred to on the plans, there
were 402 defective drains repaired by the owners.
25. Nuisances abated. In the Annual Report for the year
1919,1 made reference to the effect that the changed economic
conditions in connection with the increased cost of labour and
materials, and the demand for labour and materials for houses,
were factors of difficulty in maintaining houses in a satisfactory
and healthy condition, and in getting the necessary
work done associated with the notices that are served for the
abatement of the nuisances. The analysis of the work that
it has been possible to accomplish shews that there has been
a very large increase in the nuisances abated. This is in
evidence in the following instances:—
(1) For some years past the cost of dust bins has been excessive,
but there has been a diminution in the price in the
past year, and less difficulty was experienced in obtaining the
prompt compliance of notices served for the provision of
dust bins. Systematical inspection was carried out for dust
bins in various parts of the district, and, as a result, notices
were served for 1,363 dust bins ; these were supplied. This
figure compares with 609 in 1919, 434 in 1918, and 447 in
1917.
(2) Damp conditions in houses were dealt with in 2,173
instances. The value and necessity of the remedying of damp
conditions in houses need no emphasis ; the knowledge of the
injurious effects on health is universal. The extent of dampness
that was dealt with was a question of degree. In some
instances it was due to the following conditions
(a) Absence of or defective damp-proof courses.
(b) Defective guttering and down-spouting,