Tackling Damp, Mould & Condensation Feature
Smart strategies for battling mould
James Kane of EnviroVent discusses the growing concern of condensation and mould in social housing, highlighting innovative ventilation solutions and proactive measures to improve indoor air quality and tenant well-being.
Interiors
A
utumn and winter are a time when social housing providers traditionally start to experience an increase in call-outs to deal with issues of condensation and mould growth in the home. Whereas in
years gone by, this might have been seen as an accepted part of the repairs and maintenance cycle, now social housing providers are increasingly adopting preventative measures and taking advantage of the latest technology to ensure better levels of indoor air quality as standard in homes. Te English Housing Survey (2021-2022) highlighted the scale of the
challenge, revealing that damp continues to affect a staggering 935,000 tenanted homes in England.
THE HEALTH IMPACT Social housing providers are very aware that the presence of condensation and mould in homes can have far-reaching consequences for tenants’ health and well-being. Te microscopic spores released by mould as it grows and spreads can act as potent allergens, triggering a range of respiratory issues, including asthma-like symptoms, difficulty breathing and irritation of the airways. Tese can affect vulnerable groups particularly badly, such as the elderly, the very young and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Beyond the immediate health concerns, the emotional and psychological toll
of living in a damp, mouldy environment should not be overlooked. Occupants may experience increased stress and anxiety, further exacerbating the negative impacts on their overall quality of life. Unresolved condensation and mould problems can lead to significant
structural damage, requiring costly repairs and renovations. Tis not only diverts resources away from other essential maintenance and improvement projects but also reduces the overall asset value of the affected properties. Te installation of high-performance ventilation systems can help to prevent these issues, mitigating the risk of expensive remediation work and preserving the condition of the housing stock. When indoor air quality in homes is improved it can make a significant impact on health outcomes for occupants.
LEGISLATION Te issue of condensation and mould in social housing has gained national attention, leading to new legislation under the Social Housing (Regulation) Act being released which is designed to ensure tenants benefit from safe, warm, decent homes.
www.housingmmonline.co.uk | HMMDecember/January 2025 | 29
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