Environmental Health Officer (for Houses)

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Happened to be at home during the day today (which is a rare occurance) and somebody called to the house looking for my flatmate who's in receipt of both job seekers allowance and rent allowance. They told me they were an environmental health officer (EHO) with the county council and had a housing appointment with my housemate to check the house, but because they weren't there the EHO didn't come in.

Does anybody know why an EHO would arrange a 'housing appointment'? And what are the consequences/benefits? Do they have to inspect the whole house or just the rooms to which my housemate has access (ie - bedroom, kitchen, living room. etc.)?

I've never lived with anyone who's been in receipt of social welfare before, nor have I (thankfully, thus far!) had to rely on social welfare payments to get by, so I have no clue as to what the procedures and policies are, so I'd appreciate if anyone could enlighten me/give me advice.

Thanks.

Victor

I imagine they want to know that they property is habitable.

Separately, council housing departments get funding from the PRTB to do inspections of all rented properties.

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Thanks!