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whenever possible extension of time has been granted provided
the serious defects are immediately and satisfactorily
remedied.
As a result much more work than is asked for is frequently
done, as the owner appreciates his obligation and the
assistance rendered to him.
In this connection I am inclined to be somewhat optimistic,
because it was my experience towards the close of the
year to find owners able and willing to proceed much quicker,
thereby avoiding the service of notices and the subsequent
revisiting of the property.
Overcrowding-.—In addition to cases of overcrowding
discovered during general inspections, 9 complaints were
received and investigated.
In 4 cases following the service of notices the overcrowding
was abated by the sub-tenants obtaining more
satisfactory accommodation elsewhere. In 2 cases conditions
were somewhat improved by rearrangement of sleeping
accommodation; in one case the Statutory Notice had not
been complied with at the end of the year, but the matter
is still being dealt with, and in the other 2 cases no overcrowding
was found to exist.
In large families the separation of sexes and the provision
of adequate sleeping accommodation are problems which,
in most cases, are rather difficult of solution. Additional
accommodation at an economic rent is extremely hard to
obtain, and, when it is available, landlords prefer to let only
to small families.
Houses Let in Lodgings.—There are now 73 of these
houses on the Register. One hundred and sixty-eight 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, 36 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.
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