Global Navigation

Squalor and hoarding

Understanding neglectful behaviour

When people are living in squalor (filthy conditions) or constantly hoarding items of little value – to the point where their home becomes a health and safety risk – there are often complex reasons for their self-neglect.

Their behaviour may be the result of a number of psychiatric disorders (depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia) or a physical disorder. They may have dementia (or another age-related illness) or be suffering a type of trauma or the effects of substance abuse.

Living in a situation of squalor and hoarding has a huge impact on individuals. They can become even more withdrawn and socially isolated, as personal relationships break down. They may fear eviction from rental properties and be more at risk of health problems. Financial problems are also common.

Neighbours are also at risk as squalor and hoarding situations are fire and health hazards. They can result in vermin and other pest infiltrations too.

Our environmental health specialists have put together a fact sheet on dealing with these issues, available to download below.

If you are concerned for yourself or about a neighbour, please call the City of Sydney's customer service line on 02 9365 9333 (24 hours, 7 days a week) and we will step in to help.

What the City can do

Our officers will visit the home and assess the conditions and risks. They may then refer the matter to a support service, such as Catholic Healthcare Community Services, which specialises in assessing and intervening in cases of squalor and hoarding.

Our staff will always try to resolve hoarding or squalor issues informally. If they are not successful and conditions pose a risk to public health, the we can issue an order to have the risk abated.

Links

Squalor and Hoarding Toolkit (Catholic Healthcare Community Services)

Last updated: Tuesday, 21 May 2013