that are carried and spread by the air. Spores may remain able to grow for years after they are produced. Additionally, whether or not the spores are actually alive, the allergens in and on them may remain allergenic for years. These spores are ubiquitous in indoor environments, meaning the key to prevention lies in controlling moisture, improving ventilation and maintaining regular internal surface temperatures The “black mould” misconception “Black mould” is a term often used loosely to describe any dark mould growth, though the colour itself is not necessarily linked to toxicity. True “toxic black mould” refers to Stachybotrys chartarum which is just one of many common types of mould, others include Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Cladosporium. Regardless of species, visible mould is a sign of underlying moisture imbalance that must be properly diagnosed and addressed. Design responsibility and long-term remediation Under Awaab’s Law, housing providers will need to demonstrate not only that remedial works have been undertaken, but also that they have achieved lasting results. Cosmetic “quick fixes”, such as painting over visible mould or applying temporary treatments will no longer meet strict legal or ethical standards. For the design and construction sector this brings into focus the importance of specifying robust, long-life materials and coatings that will actively inhibit microbial growth. It also highlights the need for collaborative working between architects, building surveyors, contractors and maintenance teams to ensure that design intent translates into long-term performance on site. Why traditional treatments fall short Many ‘off the shelf’ anti-mould paints provide only short-term relief, lasting typically around 12-18 months before reapplication is required. These products suppress symptoms, rather than solving the underlying microbial problem, which leads to a costly cycle of mould re-growth followed by the reapplication of relatively ineffective paint. This is not only ineffective but also drives up maintenance costs. By contrast, active high-performance and scientifically
proven anti-mould coatings, designed to prevent mould growth over the long term, can deliver lasting protection when combined with appropriate ventilation and moisture management strategies. Preventative design and raising industry standards For architects, developers and building managers Awaab’s Law offers a powerful incentive to prioritise preventative design. This includes: • Designing to minimise cold bridging and condensation risk. • Integrating mechanical and passive ventilation solutions. • Specifying breathable, moisture-tolerant finishes and materials. • Introducing scientifically proven anti-mould coatings and finishes as part of the specification. By embedding these principles into project delivery professionals can help housing providers meet their new statutory obligations whilst importantly safeguarding occupant wellbeing. A catalyst for better homes Awaab’s Law is more than a compliance milestone; it’s a catalyst for raising standards across the housing sector. The law challenges architects and the construction industry to focus on long-term building health, resilience and social responsibility. In short, this is an opportunity for the industry to lead, designing and delivering homes that remain safe and healthy for generations to come.
JT210
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