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families. In the majority of cases they are quite unable to find
more suitable premises; firstly, because they cannot afford to
pay a larger rent and, secondly, because landlords hesitate to
let to large families.
The question of purchasing a house is, only too often, but
a " castle in the air," and cannot for a moment be considered
by those referred to.
The only real solution is, undoubtedly, the provision of
houses to be let at a weekly inclusive rent such as these families
could afford without depriving themselves of the essentials of
life.
Houses Let in Lodgings.—There are now 73 of these houses
on the Register. Five hundred and thirty-one visits of inspection
have been made, and, in addition, during the periodical
house to house inspection, a number of the houses let in lodgings
were inspected, but these visits will appear in the report of
house to house inspection.
Verminous Rooms.—During the year, 54 rooms have been
dealt with. As previously, the necessary notices were served
upon the persons responsible, whether occupier or owner. Every
assistance has been given to those anxious to free their premises
from vermin, and fumigants have been supplied at cost price,
or fumigation carried out by the Public Health Department at
the owner's expense, after the walls had been stripped as
required.
Common Lodging Houses.—There is one registered Common
Lodging House, namely, 42, Merton High Street, for
which an annual Certificate of Registration was granted from
1st January, 1932 to 31st December, 1932. These premises have
been visited from time to time, when a few minor defects have
been found. The defects have been remedied immediately the
owner's attention has been directed to them, and the premises
generally are kept in a satisfactory condition.
Van Dwellings.—During the year 246 visits have been paid
to the caravans in the district, and, although it has been necessary
to serve Notices regarding one or two minor defects, the
vans as a whole have been kept in a fairly reasonable condition.
In some instances the sites still continue to be crowded, but
every endeavour is being made to reduce the numbers.
In one case three caravans and two other vans have been
removed. In another case, where there are four vans only
one is occupied, and in a further case, one caravan has been
removed.
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