Pin Point Issue 39 - 29th September 2024
Supporting the UK's first Damp & Mould Action and Awareness week
Aico provide home life safety services and have this week taken the reins to coordinate the first ever Damp & Mould awareness and action campaign. Damp and mould have recently become high profile issues for the social housing sector and Mid Devon Housing are taking proactive steps towards management of our own housing stock, however the same problems exist within private rented homes too.
Why is damp and mould in the home a problem?
Damp and mould mainly affect peoples airways and lungs, but also eyes and skin. The respiratory effects of damp and mould can cause serious illness and, in the most severe cases, death. The tragic death of Awaab Ishak was the result of a severe respiratory condition due to prolonged exposure to mould in a home with inadequate ventilation.
Living in damp and mouldy conditions can also affect mental health because of the health worries, unpleasant living conditions, and destruction of property and belongings, among other concerns.
Its important to remember that everyone is vulnerable to the health impacts of damp and mould, but people with certain health conditions, children and older adults are at greater risk of severe illness.
And...it costs money
Aico has identified that 'the NHS spends an estimated £1.4 billion a year on treating illnesses associated with living in cold or damp housing. When wider societal costs such as ongoing healthcare are taken into consideration, the figure leaps to £15.4 billion.
Don't forget that Local authorities can use a range of enforcement measures under the Housing Act 2004 to deal with hazards found in private rental homes. These include improvement notices, hazard awareness notices and emergency remedial action. Since 2016, local authorities have also had the option to issue civil penalty notices instead of pursuing prosecution for certain housing offences.
Where can I get more information?
The Shelter website provides useful and practical advice for tenants so please think about sharing helpful tips with tenants. the Government have issued guidance which provides very detailed information for how to deal with the problem, although focused at social housing tenants this is a great starting point to solving the problem. Aico also have FAQ's and useful webinars on their website as part of the awareness week.