Interiors
Bathroom Refurbishment & Maintenance Feature
Retrofitting bathrooms: A vital strategy for damp & mould control
Jamie Sandilands of Grant Westfield delves into the benefits of utilising panels in damp and mould prone areas, alongside the legal responsibilities of landlords under the Safety Act to ensure tenant safety
D
amp and mould pose significant challenges in maintaining a safe and healthy living environment, especially in areas prone to moisture build-up and humidity such as bathrooms. Retrofitting bathrooms
with moisture-resistant wall panels presents a proactive approach to addressing these issues, regardless of the specific product used.
THE THREAT OF DAMP AND MOULD Damp and mould thrive in environments with high humidity levels and poor ventilation, making bathrooms particularly vulnerable. Te accumulation of moisture from showers and baths, coupled with inadequate ventilation, creates ideal conditions for mould growth. Leſt unchecked, damp and mould not only jeopardise the structural integrity of the property but also pose health risks to occupants, leading to respiratory problems and allergies.
LANDLORDS’ LEGAL OBLIGATIONS Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords are legally obligated to provide habitable living conditions for their tenants. Tis includes addressing issues of damp and mould in a timely and effective manner. Failure to do so not only can endanger a tenant’s health and safety but also exposes landlords to potential legal liabilities. Retrofitting bathrooms with
40 | HMMApril/May 2024 |
www.housingmmonline.co.uk
moisture-resistant solutions is a proactive measure that landlords can take to fulfil their duty of care and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Campaigners have also demanded social housing reforms aſter the tragic
death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died from mould exposure in his Rochdale home in 2020. As a result, Awaab’s Law was introduced as a component of the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023 and makes up the biggest government reforms affecting social housing in a decade. Awaab’s Law requires landlords to promptly address and fix reported health hazards within specified timeframes.
THE ROLE OF WALL PANELS Wall panels offer a versatile and effective solution for combating damp and mould in bathrooms. Unlike traditional tiling, which is susceptible to grout deterioration and water seepage, panels provide a seamless and waterproof barrier that prevents moisture ingress and inhibits mould growth. Tis not only safeguards the structural integrity of the property but also reduces the need for frequent maintenance and repairs. Tere is also the added benefit that the installation process for wall panels is
relatively straightforward, minimising disruption and downtime. Whether it’s retrofitting existing bathrooms or incorporating panels into new construction,
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52
