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27
This latter provision is, however, one which might well give rise
to great problems. Closing order procedure itself will not be
difficult, but preservation of the building will present not only an
economic problem, but the possibility of a nuisance arising must
not be overlooked. Two further sections worthy of mention are
Sections 4 and 20. The former empowers the local authority to
make advances for the purpose of increasing housing accommodation,
and the latter to make grants for improvement of existing houses.
Regulations have been made for these purposes and incorporate
a condition which should prove of great value to all local authorities.
This condition can be referred to as the "16 point standard,"
to which all houses must conform where applications for grants are
made.
It should raise the standard of judgment in assessing the fitness
of houses, and should enable the local authority to deal effectively,
by way of slum clearance, with "border line" houses.
Standard for a satisfactory house in the Report of the Standards of
Fitness for Habitation Sub-Committee of the Central Housing Advisory
Committee.
The dwelling must—
(i) be in all respects dry;
(ii) be in a good state of repair;
(iii) have each room properly lighted and ventilated;
(iv) have an adequate supply of wholesome water laid on for all
purposes inside the dwelling;
(v) be provided with efficient and adequate means of supplying
hot water for domestic purposes;
(vi) have an internal or otherwise readily accessible water
closet;
(vii) have a fixed bath, preferably in a separate room ;
(viii) be provided with a sink or sinks, and with suitable arrangements
for the disposal of waste water;
(ix) be provided with facilities for domestic washing, including
a copper, preferably in a separate room;
(x) have a proper drainage system;
(xi) be provided with adequate points for artificial lighting in
each room;
(xii) be provided with adequate facilities for heating each
habitable room;