The Environmental Protection Team has a statutory duty to deal with filthy and/or verminous premises, under section 79 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and section 83 of the Public Health Act 1936.
Where any premises are in a condition of disrepair or serious lack of cleanliness, then the Local Authority can serve an Abatement Notice. The notice is usually served on the occupier, the landlord or building owner.
Infestation by rats or mice
The Local Authority has a statutory duty to take action to eradicate the infestation in respect of all residential and commercial premises. This service is free in respect of residential properties.
Infestation by fleas, cockroaches or other insect pests
The Local Authority may provide treatment for residential properties, but can make a charge for such services. All such enquiries should be referred to the Pest Control Officer.
Checks should be made for any previous involvement by the Social Services Department etc. regarding the occupier.
If thorough cleansing of the dwelling house is required, the owner will need to engage the services of a specialist Hygiene contractor.
The Environmental Health Officer normally oversees all cleansing operations. The officer will also be able to assist in appointing a suitable contractor if required.
Filthy and/or verminous articles
Articles that can be salvaged may require either steam cleansing or disinfection by an approved chemical disinfectant. Otherwise articles will be removed and destroyed.
Filthy or verminous pets
The RSPCA should be fully involved. Treatment of pets should be undertaken by an approved Veterinary Surgeon, although an owner can apply proprietary dusting powders and flea collars for minor infestations.
Filthy or verminous persons
The Social Services Department and Area Health Authority should be consulted immediately in the case of any person who is lousy or suspected of suffering from a notifiable infectious disease. Under section 85 of the Public Health Act 1936, the affected person can be removed to a disinfecting station or hospital for treatment for lice or other notifiable infectious disease.
In the case of a deceased person, the Police should be contacted immediately