ABSTRACT
Throughout recorded history mankind has been concerned with provision of adequate shelter against the elements and the development of a safe and comfortable physical environment in which to live. The degree of success in achieving this has been largely determined by prevailing socio-economic conditions and the influence of environmental changes arising from, for instance, industrialization or technological pursuits. As a result many parts of the developing world have a serious housing problem as expressed by homelessness, slum and poor quality housing, ostensibly contributing to hazards to health and well-being. For instance, disease, accidents and fires are all more prevalent in slum areas; psychological and social disturbances are also partly attributed to sub-standard housing.
