A nuisance could be rubbish or strong cooking smells. Statutory power to deal with the problem can be used if the nuisance is persistent. Refuse and Vermin Problems concerning refuse and vermin needn't be a problem in the borough if residents are considerate when disposing of their rubbish. For a small fee, the Council will collect large items, like unwanted furniture. Every home has been given a large lidded waste bin for free weekly collections.
Businesses have to pay for their own waste collection.
The Environment Agency has a hotline so that members of the public can report those who dump rubbish. The Health, Safety and Environment team has to persuade or order owners of private drainage to repair their drains. There are a small number of properties which may be so filthy and verminous as a result of the occupier's living habits that an order has to be made against the occupier and a cleaning operation carried out. Some properties need boarding up and others need to be tidied up and fenced to prevent refuse dumping and rat infestations. The HSE team has the responsibility to enforce safety legislation in about 8.000 work places in the borough.