We're responsible for improving housing conditions for people in Plymouth, protecting their health, safety and well-being. When possible we try to avoid legal action by working with landlords, tenants, leaseholders and owners. However when circumstances require we can take the following action:
Powers of entry
Allows us entry (forced if necessary) to a property for the purposes of inspection when access is denied.
Power to require information
Allows us to serve a notice requiring certain information to be given, for example about who owns a property.
Power to serve notices requiring works to be done
Allows us to serve a notice requiring improve living conditions for occupiers and/or neighbours.
Powers to enter a property and undertake work
Allows entry to a property to do required work that has failed to be completed and recharge the owner.
Power to take over management of properties
Allows to take over management of a property for example if we can't issue a licence (where required) or if the property has been empty for a long time.
Power to close a property
Allows us to close a seriously substandard property (after a detailed assessment to decide the best course of action), closure might be required where improvements are too expensive or the property is beyond improving.
Power to require demolition of a property
Allows us to close a seriously substandard property.
Hazard awareness notices
Allows us ensure that the owner/person responsible is aware of a hazard and the desirability of carrying out repairs/alterations.
If these notices fail to make an improvement we can pursue a prosecution.
Email communityconnections@plymouth.gov.uk or call 01752 398500 if you've a problem with housing conditions.