User initiated extension activity in Bangladesh: "building slums" or area improvement?

This paper presents the findings of research into the house extensions or a lterations undertaken by the occupants of a government 'core-housing' estat e in Dhaka. It shows that these extensions or alterations did not 'help to create slums', even though government officials often assume they will do s o and have policies which are meant to stop such changes, In fact, these ch anges brought more rooms as well as more room per person, increased house s ize and improved service levels and physical conditions. They also increase d the value of the housing and helped contribute to an increased supply of cheap and relatively good quality rental accommodation. The paper ends with some recommendations on the need for changes in official attitudes and mor e 'enabling' government regulations on such house extensions.