Help tackle the scourge of damp & mould

Damp occurs when excess moisture builds up in a property, which can lead to mould growth. Mould is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, humid conditions and can affect both tenant health and the condition of the property. Factors like low indoor temperatures can exacerbate condensation, which contributes to dampness. When properties are not adequately heated, surfaces become cold, leading to moisture in the air condensing on walls and windows, further encouraging mould growth.

Mould exposure can trigger respiratory issues, asthma, and allergies, particularly in vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, or individuals with pre-existing conditions. It is vital for social landlords to mitigate mould growth to ensure tenant well-being and reduce the risk of health-related complaints.

Social landlords have a responsibility to ensure that their properties are safe, habitable, and free from hazards like damp and mould. Awaab’s Law, introduced after the tragic death of Awaab Ishak due to mould exposure in his home, underscores the importance of landlords taking immediate action on damp and mould issues. The law compels social landlords to fix reported damp and mould problems within specified timeframes.

Regular inspections can help identify signs of damp and mould, such as:

• • Musty smells or mould spots on walls, ceilings, or around windows
  • Peeling wallpaper, blistering paint, or discoloured walls
  • Damp patches that don’t dry out, especially on lower walls or ceilings
  • Condensation or persistent dampness

Early identification allows landlords to take corrective action before problems worsen.

Environmental sensors can be used to monitor moisture levels and humidity in properties, alerting landlords to potential damp conditions.

Damp can arise from several sources, including:

• • Poor ventilation in properties
  • Leaky roofs, gutters, or plumbing systems
  • Rising damp from the ground
  • Condensation due to inadequate heating or insulation

Landlords and residents can proactively manage damp and mould by:

• • Ensuring properties are well-ventilated, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms
  • Installing and maintaining extractor fans where necessary
  • Regularly checking roofs, gutters, and plumbing for leaks
  • Ensuring properties have adequate insulation and heating to prevent condensation
  • Educating tenants on ways to reduce moisture, such as drying clothes outside or using extractor fans
  • Environmental sensors can help monitor indoor humidity levels, alerting landlords and tenants when conditions may lead to condensation or damp

Energy-efficient measures, such as better insulation, double-glazing, and efficient heating systems, reduce the likelihood of condensation and damp. By investing in energy efficiency, social landlords can not only prevent damp issues but also reduce tenants’ energy bills, improving satisfaction and reducing complaints.

If a tenant reports an issue, investigate it promptly. Minor mould issues may be managed with cleaning and improving ventilation, but persistent or widespread damp may require more extensive repairs, such as fixing leaks, addressing rising damp, or improving insulation. Awaab’s Law mandates that social landlords act within strict timelines to resolve damp and mould issues. Clear communication with tenants about next steps and timelines is crucial. More details on Awaab’s Law can be found here.

Under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), social landlords are legally required to ensure properties are free from hazards, including excess damp and mould. Awaab’s Law imposes additional requirements, ensuring that social landlords act quickly and decisively to fix reported damp and mould. Failure to address these issues can result in enforcement action, compensation claims, or reputational damage.

Social landlords can access various resources, including guidance from local authorities, environmental health teams, and damp-proofing specialists. Training sessions or webinars during Damp and Mould Action Week may also provide useful insights and updates on best practices for maintaining safe and healthy properties.

Landlords should provide tenants with guidance on reducing moisture, such as:

• • Opening windows and using extractor fans when cooking or bathing
  • Avoiding drying clothes indoors where possible
  • Keeping heating at consistent levels during colder months
    Providing clear communication and educational materials can help tenants manage minor issues and prevent more serious damp problems.
  • Environmental sensors can further assist by monitoring humidity levels and providing real-time data to tenants and landlords.

If tenants are not following advice, such as ventilating or heating the property correctly, landlords should engage with them to explain the risks and provide practical support where possible. If the issue persists, landlords may need to document their efforts and consider formal approaches to resolve the matter, especially if the damp is worsening. Awaab’s Law reinforces the importance of ensuring tenant safety, which may necessitate firm action.

If damp is not dealt with, it can cause serious structural damage to the property, such as weakening walls, damaging plaster, or rotting woodwork. This not only leads to expensive repairs but can also reduce the overall lifespan of the building. Proactive maintenance can help social landlords avoid these long-term issues.

Social landlords can use Damp and Mould Awareness Week to:

• Conduct tenant outreach and raise awareness about damp prevention
• Arrange inspections of high-risk properties
• Share resources and educational materials with tenants to reduce damp
• Attend industry workshops and webinars to stay informed on the latest solutions and regulations regarding damp and mould management.