You may have seen the BBC TV series life of grime where environmental health officers make arrangements to clear large quantities of rubbish from people’s homes. These situations can be quite dramatic and emotive on the television and have sparked many an armchair debate.
While the legal solution in these situations is quite simple, the issues and people involved are often very complex. Everybody has a different standard of cleanness and EHOs are not cleanliness police. We become involved where there is a risk to the health of the occupiers or to neighbours, carers or visitors. We try to address it sensitively and informally if possible but sometimes have to use legal powers to bring homes up to a reasonable standard. Sometimes we involve other people that can help such as housing officers or social workers.
Typical situations include:
• Large amounts of food waste
• Large amounts of bodily waste
• Large amounts of animal fouling
• Blocked toilets
• Pest issues, often from a variety of rodent and insect pests
The causes vary and may be difficult to pinpoint. Health problems are often involved but sometimes they are just a matter of habit.The occupier’s awareness of the problem also varies – some people are very protective of the things they have collected and don’t like our involvement, others are embarrassed but desperate for help.
EHOs have powers to enter into people’s homes if there are reasonable grounds to believe that the conditions may be filthy or verminous. We can apply to the courts for a warrant if this is needed. This is not something we do lightly so we need to be satisfied that it is the right thing to do.
If you know someone is in a situation like this, or if you are worried about somebody who might be, then please contact the public health service. We can discuss the situation with you and may be able to give advice that will help.
Southampton City Council
