We understand that people who hoard items often have strong attachments to items which are not easy for others to understand.
They are often resistant to the idea of clearing their home of the belongings, and the actual removal of the items from their homes can prove extremely traumatic for them.
As a responsible landlord, we must balance the needs of the individual with the needs of the local community. If we receive a report of hoarding, we will try to work with the tenant to address their support needs, their hoarding behaviour, and to remove the items in and around their home which are causing a concern.
We also encourage our tenants to speak to us do discuss how we can provide help and support.
What is hoarding?
Hoarding is usually characterised by the collection of and failure to discard of items that appear to be of little use or value (such as rubbish, items of sentimental value, newspapers, furniture, and even animals).
Dangers of hoarding
Hoarding can pose a serious risk to the hoarder and their neighbours, including:
- Increased fire risk
- Blocking escape routes (emergency entrances/exits)
- Attracts vermin infestation
- Damages the property
- Can cause accidents in the home
Serious hoarding can lead to properties that are unpleasant to look at, have a negative effect on the local environment (smells, vermin, and they can become a local dumping ground), and they can cause a severe health and safety risk.
Help and support is available
Safety is of paramount importance to us and there is no need to struggle alone. Support is available. Contact your Neighbourhood Officer:
- Call 0800 678 1894 (Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-12noon)
- Email info@torus.co.uk
- Visit one on of our receptions at The Observatory (Liverpool), Central (St Helens), Bank Park House (Warrington), Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
- Online form