Vol. 489 No. 3
asked the Minister for the
Environment and Local Government if he has the powers to require landlords to maintain certain standards affecting the external appearance and upkeep of the property; and if he will consider introducing a requirement to meet certain minimum standards of upkeep with, if necessary, a transition period to allow landlords time to adapt. [8188/98]
The Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations, 1993, oblige landlords of rented dwellings to ensure that they comply with certain minimum standards, including their structural condition. The regulations require that all out offices, yards and forecourts within the curtilage of the building containing the dwelling and all boundary walls, fences and railings be maintained in good repair. Local authorities, which are responsible for the enforcement of the regulations, have been urged to take all steps open to them to secure compliance with their provisions. The Litter Pollution Act, 1997, section 6, requires the owners of any land appurtenant to a residence that is let in two or more dwellings to keep the land free of litter if it is visible to any extent from a public place. The occupiers of such dwellings also have a statutory duty not to create litter. In addition, the occupier of properties located within the confines of a speed limit area, other than the general or motorway speed limits, are required to keep free of litter any footpaths or pavements adjoining the road.
