A man has been forced out of his home and into a hotel after making a horrifying discovery in the cellar of his flat. Gary Alman, 34, moved into the property earlier this year but was soon plagued by a persistent smell of urine that lasted for two weeks. The source was revealed when a tradesperson opened the cellar door, uncovering a river of human faeces and a severe rat infestation.
Grim Discovery
Gary initially reported the smell to his landlord, Riverside Housing, but was told there was no problem. He then contacted pest control himself. The pest control officer found approximately 100 pieces of rat droppings under a kitchen cupboard. Further inspection revealed blocked drains and clear access points for rats. When a contractor checked the cellar, they found around 200 pieces of rat droppings on the first step and a river of human faeces on the floor.
Describing the scene, Gary said, "It was unbelievable, but not the worst of it. The smell was absolutely horrendous. When I eventually got down the steps, I found a river of human faeces flowing on the cellar floor. I've never seen anything like it and it knocked me sick."
Impact on Health
The situation forced Gary into temporary accommodation at a hotel. He says Riverside Housing did not resolve the issue promptly, leaving him uncertain about when he can return home. The stress has taken a toll on his physical and mental health. "My health has deteriorated, and my private consultant and GP are very concerned about me because I have a bowel problem caused by the stress, anxiety, and depression of not knowing when it's safe to go back," he explained.
Gary previously received an £8,000 homeless compensation grant from his previous flat. He was happy to be offered the new property but now feels let down. "The hotel where I am is horrible, and I don't feel safe going outside, even for some fresh air. I just don't know what to do," he added.
Riverside Housing Response
A spokesperson for Riverside Housing told the Liverpool Echo that they were alerted to the rat reports on May 14 and are working to resolve the issues urgently. "We understand how distressing this situation has been for Mr Alman and apologise for the inconvenience. Following visits by our pest control contractors, there has been no further pest activity detected. We will arrange a follow-up visit in the coming weeks and have appointed contractors to investigate the drainage issues in the communal basement," the spokesperson said.
Despite the assurance, Gary remains in the hotel, awaiting a safe return home.
