Homeowner Could Face Legal Action After Flytip On Common
Homeholders can be legally liable for how builders dispose of waste
Officers from Wandsworth Parks Police have launched an investigation after the discovery of a large flytip on Tooting Common.
The waste was found dumped on the common near its junction with Cavendish Road. Among the pile of black sacks was a sizeable quantity of builder’s waste and rubble.
Evidence gleaned from the flytip led the officers to a nearby address which was undergoing renovation. The occupant is now likely to face legal action for failing to ensure his waste was properly disposed of.
The officers are also trying to trace an individual who is believed to have been paid to remove the rubbish. They are appealing for anyone who witnessed suspicious activity at this location to come forward with information.
The maximum penalty that can be imposed by the courts following conviction for a serious flytip offence is an unlimited fine and/or a prison sentence of up to five years.
Residents having work done on their properties should always check with their builders and other contractors precisely how they will be disposing of any waste materials.
They should be extremely wary of people knocking on their doors unannounced and offering to take away their rubbish.
'Cowboy' waste contractors often drive around residential areas looking for homes that are being refurbished or cleared. They will approach the owner and offer to take "junk” away for a cut price rate.
But instead of taking it to a proper waste disposal site and paying the appropriate fees, they simply dump it somewhere nearby – often in parks or other open spaces – leaving taxpayers to foot the clean-up bill.
In these cases it is not just the flytipper who is committing a crime, the householder who paid them to take their waste away is also liable under the law.
Residents wanting rubbish cleared can call the town hall on (020) 8871 8558. The Council will remove waste for a small fee. If households choose a licensed private contractor instead they must make sure they get a proper receipt.
Anyone with information about rubbish being dumped should telephone (020) 8871 6396. All calls will be treated in confidence.
December 24, 2017