DAMP AND MOULD IN RENTED HOMES: WHY PROPERTY INSPECTIONS ARE CRITICAL FOR AWAAB'S LAW

Damp and mould are more than an unsightly nuisance; they pose serious health risks, especially for children, older adults, and people with respiratory issues. The tragic story of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who suffered prolonged exposure to mould, highlighted the need for immediate action and lasting change. This resulted in the introduction of Awaab’s Law for the social housing sector, which will soon be mirrored in the private rented sector through the Renters’ Rights Bill.

THE ROLE OF ROUTINE INSPECTIONS FOR DAMP AND MOULD

Damp and mould thrive when there’s too much moisture in a home, which can happen from condensation, leaks, or poor building ventilation when cooking, washing or doing laundry. As well as the health risks, damp also causes damage to walls, ceilings and furniture. It is therefore vital to address issues at the first sign of trouble.

To comply with Awaab’s Law, proactive property inspections and routine visits are crucial. Waiting for tenants to report damp and mould can delay improvements and lead to worsening conditions, whereas routine inspections allow landlords and agents to detect issues early, take preventive actions, and resolve small problems before they escalate.

These visits also help to build trust with tenants. Proactive inspections demonstrate a commitment to tenant welfare, fostering trust between residents and landlords. This trust is essential in cases where tenants feel uncomfortable reporting maintenance issues.

Preventative maintenance is often more cost-effective than reactive repairs too. Addressing small issues before they escalate can save housing providers significant time and resources in the long term.

BEST PRACTICE FOR ROUTINE INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE

It’s important that landlords, letting agents and housing associations develop a systematic approach to route property inspections to ensure compliance:

• Quarterly or biannual inspections: Conduct routine inspections every three to six months to ensure that all properties remain safe and habitable.
• Clear communication channels: Establish clear communication channels between tenants and housing providers. Encourage tenants to report issues immediately, emphasising that early reporting will not result in rent increases or penalties. Using a platform like Inventory Hive makes this easier for all parties.
• Record-keeping and documentation: Keep detailed records of inspections, including photographs, reports, and any actions taken. Documentation serves as proof of compliance and can be critical if disputes arise.
• Tenant education and awareness: Educate tenants on preventive measures, such as proper ventilation, to minimise damp and mould issues. This empowers tenants to be proactive in managing their living environments.
• Landlord education: Whilst tenant lifestyle can contribute to damp and mould, damp is more commonly a result of issues within the structure of the building, such as lack of available ventilation. It is therefore essential that landlords understand the structural causes of mould and the necessary actions for rectifying them promptly.