Hoarding is recognised as a disorder where you collect lots of things and find it very difficult to get rid of them, even if it's affecting your life.
We recognise that hoarding is a complex issue and that people may develop strong emotional attachments to possessions that can be difficult for others to understand.
For individuals affected by hoarding behaviour, the thought of disposing of belongings can be extremely distressing and emotionally challenging. We are committed to taking a supportive and person-centred approach, recognising that hoarding is often linked to underlying health, wellbeing, or personal circumstances.
As a responsible landlord, we must balance the needs of the individual with the safety and wellbeing of the wider community. Where concerns about hoarding are identified, we will seek to work with the tenant and relevant support agencies to:
- Understand any underlying support needs.
- Provide advice and signposting to appropriate services.
- Reduce risks to health, safety, and the property.
- Support the tenant to address hoarding behaviours where appropriate.
- Resolve any issues that may be affecting neighbours or the surrounding community.
We encourage any tenant who is struggling with clutter or hoarding to contact us as early as possible so that we can discuss the support available.
What is hoarding?
Hoarding is generally characterised by the excessive accumulation of possessions and difficulty or inability to dispose of items, regardless of their practical value.
Items commonly associated with hoarding may include:
- Household goods and furniture.
- Newspapers, magazines, or paperwork.
- Sentimental items.
- Packaging and stored materials.
- General household clutter or waste.
- In some cases, animals.
The severity of hoarding can vary significantly, from manageable clutter to conditions that present serious health and safety risks.
Risks associated with hoarding
Hoarding can create significant hazards for both the occupier and neighbouring residents. These may include:
- Increased risk of fire.
- Blocked escape routes and restricted emergency access.
- Vermin or pest infestations.
- Damage to the property.
- Trip, slip, and fall hazards within the home.
- Difficulties accessing essential repairs and maintenance.
- Risks to health and wellbeing.
In more serious cases, hoarding can also impact the local environment by:
- Creating unpleasant odours.
- Attracting pests and vermin.
- Affecting neighbouring properties.
- Making communal or external areas unsafe.
- Contributing to fly-tipping or dumping of waste.
How we can help
If concerns about hoarding are reported, our aim is to work collaboratively with the tenant wherever possible. We will seek to understand individual circumstances and provide support before considering enforcement action.
Support may include:
- Advice and guidance.
- Referrals to specialist support services.
- Joint working with health, social care, or other partner agencies.
- Practical assistance to reduce risks within the home.
Our priority is to help tenants sustain their tenancy safely while keeping homes free from hazards that could put residents, visitors, neighbours, or emergency services at risk.
Need support?
If you are struggling to manage belongings within your home, or you are concerned about a family member, friend, or neighbour, please contact us. Early intervention can help prevent problems from escalating and ensure the right support is put in place.