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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 1 Jul 1999

Vol. 507 No. 4

Written Answers. - Private Rented Accommodation.

John Bruton

Question:

182 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will enhance the powers of local authorities to force landlords who convert residences into flats to maintain the exterior of these houses including gardens to a standard compatible with that of neighbouring houses. [15514/99]

The Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations, 1993, oblige landlords of rented houses 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 house and all boundary walls, fences and railings be maintained in good repair. Local authorities, who are responsible for the enforcement of the regulations, have been urged to take all steps open to them to secure compliance with their provisions.

Under the Planning Act, 1963, planning permission is required when a house is converted into flats. Works to the exterior of a structure which affect its external appearance in a way which is inconsistent with the character of the structure or of neighbouring structures also require planning permission. Local authorities will have additional powers to prevent out of character changes to structures which are part of our architectural heritage, when the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 1999, comes into force on 1 January 2000.

Section 6 of the Litter Pollution Act, 1997, 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 occupiers of properties located within the confines of a speed limit area, other than the general or motorway speed limits, are required to keep any footpaths or pavements adjoining the road free of litter. Enforcement of the Litter Pollution Act is a matter for the relevant local authority.
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