In life, it is widely recognized that no bad habit yields positive outcomes for individuals. Nearly all bad habits result in negative or unfavorable consequences, impacting both the person engaging in the habit and those who coexist or reside in close proximity.
Hoarding is one such detrimental habit, and according to fair housing guidelines, individuals suffering from hoarding issues may be considered disabled. Therefore, it is of utmost importance for landlords to treat these tenants without discrimination, as failure to do so can give rise to fair housing compliance issues for the landlord. As a property owner or manager you can identify if the tenant needs your support to deal with hoarding issues, and you can help them by identifying their stage of the hoarding.
The Hazards of Hoarding: Understanding the Risks
Hoarding poses various risks that can impact both the property and its occupants. These risks include structural damage to the property, compromised aesthetics, pest infestations, blocked pathways within the property or tenant’s home, cleanliness issues, unpleasant odors, and a heightened risk of fire hazards. All of these risks associated with hoarding can jeopardize the safety and well-being of tenants and cause significant inconvenience.
Hoarding and Fire Risk
A hoarder experiences a psychological condition that hinders their ability to discard items, particularly those with sentimental value or items they believe could be useful in the future. Unfortunately, this habit can escalate to a point where individuals struggle to discard anything at all. Old newspapers, magazines, product packaging, outdated items, broken furniture, canned food, rags, etc. become difficult for them to part with. Consequently, these hoarded possessions occupy a significant amount of space within their homes, obstructing pathways and impeding movement. In some cases, tenants may even extend their hoarding outside their homes, causing inconvenience for other residents and potentially blocking important emergency exits during a fire or other hazards. It’s important to note that many of the items hoarded by individuals are highly flammable, increasing the risk of a fire outbreak. The tightly packed arrangement of these hoarded items amplifies the danger, posing a threat to the lives of both residents and the property itself. Given that these items are stored in close proximity to one another, with minimal space between them, the risk of fire spreading rapidly and causing extensive damage is significantly heightened.
Conclusion
Hoarding disorder poses numerous risks, particularly regarding fire hazards, that can have significant implications for individuals and the properties they reside in. The accumulation of items within a hoarder’s living space can obstruct pathways, compromise safety measures, and exacerbate the spread of fires. It is crucial for landlords and property owners to acknowledge the impact of hoarding on fair housing compliance and proactively address these concerns with empathy and responsibility. By taking appropriate actions, they can ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved while upholding fair housing principles.
