Public Health

Public Health was the original core element back in the late 19th century when a service to ensure the health of the public was initially conceived. Whilst there have been many changes over the years, Public Health remains a key area in the commitment of the Council to ensuring the quality of life for Dundee's citizens. To this end, the Environment Department investigates some 3000 complaints annually in respect of public health issues. These include such matters as defective drains, leaking pipes, leaking roofs, unpleasant smells, insect infestation, light nuisance etc.

Officers investigate these complaints to determine if a statutory nuisance exists. A statutory nuisance is defined as;

"Any premises in such a state as to be prejudicial to health or a nuisance and, in addition, unsatisfactory conditions relating to animals, smoke, fumes, gases, steam, smell and accumulations or deposits which are prejudicial to health.

In other words, it's where the Council is satisfied that conditions are so bad that it warrants the Council taking formal action to rectify the situation.

Where such a nuisance exists, officers have powers to serve notice requiring the nuisance to be abated. Failure to comply with a notice may result in the Council issuing a Fixed Penalty Notice (either to householders or commerce). The Fixed Penalty Notice is not an alternative to dealing with the problem at hand and does not remove the obligation to comply with the notice. In addition, the Council can elect to carry out the work in default (and recover costs), refer the matter to the Procurator Fiscal, or both.

Some examples of complaints investigated are:

Dampness: This can be as a result of condensation, rising dampness, rainwater penetration or even dampness caused by defective plumbing.

Odours: The most common causes of unpleasant smells are drainage defects, causing sewage to gather under house floors or in common areas. Advice and assistance can be given where required.

Drainage: Defective drainage within the boundary of private property can be investigated by the team. All drainage problems which occur in the main sewerage system in the street are the responsibility of Scottish Water.

Leaks: Water ingress into houses can be caused by a variety of drainage, water supply and structural problems. The Public Health team can investigate the cause of the leaks, and, in certain circumstances, enforce remedial action.

Mutual Property Repairs: As a householder, it may be that an issue you have concerns about is solely your own responsibility, but it may be that, for example in flatted accommodation, there are third parties involved. In such circumstances it remains the owner's responsibility to effect the necessary repairs. Depending upon the situation, it may be the case that the Council will serve notice on the various owners requiring them to deal with a particular problem.

Lead in Drinking Water: Testing can be undertaken to determine the level of lead in household water supplies.

Insect Infestation: In certain circumstances insects emanating from premises may constitute a Statutory Nuisance. Officers can investigate to ascertain if formal action can be taken

Light Nuisance: The Council have powers to deal with light nuisance which can arise from poorly positioned lighting that impacts directly with neighbouring properties. Most commonly for example, a security light shining directly into a neighbouring bedroom. The legislation is not intended to deal with light pollution resulting from "sky glow."

In any event, do not hesitate to contact our Public Health team for advice or assistance as may be required.

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This information is provided by the Environment Department

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