Six GMS properties inspected

GMS is one of the focus areas within the Heerlen Noord program. The checks are part of the Social Safety approach. This approach focuses on safety, quality of life, Health housing. 

Mayor Wever: "This day of action has given us a good picture of the situation behind closed doors. Thanks to the efforts of a multidisciplinary team, we were able to address abuses on the spot. We do this by taking enforcement action and/or offering help and support to residents who need it. We already have a lot of experience with these comprehensive checks and see that they also have a preventive effect. In this way, we are working together to improve the quality of life and safety in vulnerable neighborhoods."

Results

During the inspection, various violations and points of concern were identified. One property may be the result of poor landlord practices. We will investigate this further. At three addresses, we are conducting additional address investigations due to abuses or ambiguities in the living situation. 

In one case, further investigation is being conducted into unlawful residence. Two properties raised concerns in terms of fire safety. We identified structural defects in two other properties.

Finally, due to concerns about a resident, we submitted a case study for discussion by GMS.

Collaboration

The action was carried out by the Intervention Team, the integrated supervision team of the municipality of Heerlen. Various experts work together in this team. A building inspector, employees of Grip op Wonen, an address investigator, the neighborhood police officer, an adult consultant, a lawyer, and the social safety director.