Maintenance Overview

To get the best out of where you live and to keep the property in good order, we have a few essential tips on the care and maintenance of your home, as well as explaining the Authority’s part in the process.

Keeping your home free from damp and mould

If your home is damp, it can cause mould on walls and furniture and make window frames rot. Damp housing encourages the growth of mould and mites and can increase the risk of respiratory illness. Some damp is caused by condensation, which is the most common cause of mould. Eliminating condensation can help your home be free of damp and mould it causes.

Responsibility for taking care of your garden

You are responsible for making sure that your garden is kept neat and tidy. If you cannot do this because you are elderly or have a disability, we may be able to help you. If you fail to maintain your garden without good reason, we may take legal action against you or do the work and charge the costs to you.

Waste disposal

Onchan District Commissioners are responsible for collecting household waste. If you have bulky items to dispose of, they may remove them for a small fee. However, fridges and freezers may incur an additional charge for degassing and disposal, depending on where you live.

If you allow waste to build up so that it causes a health hazard, Onchan District Commissioners may arrange for its removal and charge you for the cost. If waste or unwanted household items are left in your property at the end of your tenancy, we will also charge you for clearing them.

Safe disposal of waste to public sewers

Every day, the Island’s sewers and sewage treatment works struggle with items they are not equipped to deal with effectively. They are designed to treat and deal with human waste and toilet paper only. This matters because inconsiderate disposal of sanitary items can cause problems, including flooding your own home or someone else's. It also creates a health hazard in homes and the environment. This means that household waste should be dealt with in the proper fashion.