Filthy or verminous premises

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 Team.

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 dirty contractor.

All cleansing operations, are normally overseen by the EHO or case officer with the assistance of the Team Leader (Pest Control).The Pest Control Team (contact-Steve Wilson, Team Leader) has a list of approved specialist dirty contractors who should be able to assist 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 Animal Warden Service 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.

To complain, contact:

Environmental Health
Environmental Protection
Mulberry Place (AH)
PO Box 55739
5 Clove Crescent
London E14 2BG

Tel: 020 7364 5008
E-mail: environmentalhealth@towerhamlets.gov.uk